The nation's controversial move to ban social media access for those under 16 is creating waves around the globe. Lawmakers, child protection groups, and parents are watching intently to see if this tactic will inspire imitation for countries abroad.
The European Trend
Throughout Europe, a increasing group of states are considering parallel measures.
- Denmark has stated a prohibition on social media for under-15s, with the PM stating that phones and apps are "robbing our kids' youth". Legislation is expected to be formalized soon.
- Norway is planning to implement a minimum age limit of 15, citing the need to safeguard children from the "power of the recommendation systems".
- The Irish government is developing a online verification tool to verify the identity and age of social media participants. Authorities have stated that an Australian-model ban could be "a potential tools in reserve".
- In The Spanish government, the leader has called on lawmakers to pass a bill raising the access age for joining social media to 16.
- In France, the president has floated the idea of a ban for under-15s, and a government panel has endorsed a related move, alongside an overnight "screen time restriction" for adolescents.
- The authorities in The Netherlands has advised guardians to prevent their children from social media up to the age of 15.
At the EU level, the European parliament has approved a non-binding resolution demanding a ban for minors without parental consent is provided. While it cautions of the "habit-forming" design of these services, the step does not enact binding law.
"An effective age restriction is a solid foundation," stated a leading parliamentarian supporting the resolution.
The UK: A Watchful Approach
For the United Kingdom, the administration has not ruled out a potential ban, emphasizing that "no measure is being dismissed" but stressing any policy must be "based on robust evidence".
Previously, interest grew behind a legislative effort to enact restrictions on social media use by under-16s, but it was ultimately watered down. However, the administration vowed to further research the topic.
Charities have voiced apprehensions. One foundation set up by the loved ones of a teenager who was lost after being exposed to disturbing platform posts argues that a strict age ban may not protect children and could result in a "cliff edge" of harm when users turn 16.
"The Australian ban is a reaction to the inability of the social media companies to design products and services that are appropriate and fit for children," stated a prominent online safety campaigner.
America: A Decentralized Picture
Across America, legislation is mostly unfolding at the local level due to national gridlock.
- Utah requires guardian permission for minors to use social media and limits overnight use.
- The state of Florida has signed a law barring children under fourteen from joining social media, though it is entangled in constitutional disputes.
- The state of Virginia has approved a rule limiting minors to a single hour of social media access per day, with any further use dependent on adult consent.
- Georgia, Tennessee, and Louisiana have also introduced bills demanding adult authorization for under-16s to set up social media accounts.
Even with widespread concern and proposals from some individuals to follow Australia's path, a US-wide ban is presently seen as unlikely.
Global Outlook
Beyond the West, additional nations are similarly exploring options.
- Malaysia intends to prohibit social media for teenagers effective next year.
- Brazil has lifted the minimum age for the platform Instagram to 16.
Yet, international agencies take a more nuanced tone. A major UN agency has cautioned that age-based restrictions have downsides and "might backfire". The agency highlights that the internet can be a "critical link" for isolated children and that government action should not be a "excuse" for tech companies to prioritize safety.
While this global debate evolves, the actions of Australia and its followers indicate that governments internationally are less and less prepared to delay for tech companies to act voluntarily.
