Scottish youth groups urge rethink of UK social media ban

More than 150 youth organizations and young people in Scotland have issued a letter to Prime Minister Andy Burnham urging a reconsideration of the proposed UK social media ban for individuals under the age of 16.

Led by the Scottish Youth Parliament (SYP), the group warns that such legislation could inadvertently drive young people toward less regulated and potentially more dangerous areas of the internet. The signatories, which include the Children and Young People’s Commissioner Scotland and Forces Children Scotland, are calling for “meaningful participation” in the legislative process.

The advocates are requesting that the UK Government conduct a formal children’s rights impact assessment before implementing the ban. They emphasize the need for evidence-based policies that respect children's rights and aim to create safer online spaces without increasing overall risk.