The nation's controversial move to ban social networking access for those under 16 is creating waves around the globe. Officials, child protection groups, and parents are watching closely to see if this tactic will inspire imitation for the rest of the world.
Across Europe Movement
Throughout Europe, a rising group of states are moving toward similar bans.
- The Danish government plans a restriction on social media for under-15s, with the PM arguing that mobile devices and platforms are "taking away our youngsters' youth". The policy is expected to be formalized next year.
- Norway is preparing to introduce a access barrier of 15, highlighting the need to safeguard children from the "manipulative force of the algorithms".
- Ireland is introducing a digital ID system to confirm the identity and age of social media account holders. Officials have suggested that an Australia-style ban could be "one of the measures under consideration".
- In Spain, the prime minister has urged lawmakers to approve a law lifting the minimum age for using social media to 16.
- In France, the head of state has proposed a ban for children below 15, and a legislative committee has recommended a similar step, including an overnight "digital curfew" for 15- to 18-year-olds.
- The government in The Dutch government has advised parents to block their kids from social media before 15.
For the broader EU, the EU parliament has adopted a non-binding resolution demanding a ban for minors without parental consent is granted. Although it highlights of the "habit-forming" nature of these services, the resolution does not create enforceable legislation.
"A clear age barrier is a solid starting point," said the parliamentarian supporting the measure.
The UK: An Evidence-Based Approach
For the United Kingdom, the administration has remained open to a potential ban, emphasizing that "no option is off the table" but maintaining any action must be "based on robust research".
Previously, support grew behind a legislative effort to introduce restrictions on social media use by teenagers, but it was in the end modified. Nonetheless, the administration committed to further research the topic.
Campaign organizations have expressed apprehensions. One foundation set up by the loved ones of a girl who was lost after encountering harmful social media material contends that a blanket age ban could fail to improve online safety and could lead to a "dangerous transition" of risk when teens turn 16.
"This ban is a reaction to the inability of the tech sector to design tools that are appropriate and age appropriate for minors," said a leading child protection advocate.
The US: A Fragmented Approach
In the United States, action is mostly happening at the state level against a backdrop of country-wide inaction.
- Utah demands guardian permission for minors to use social media and restricts overnight use.
- Florida has passed a measure banning those below 14 from creating accounts on social media, though it is entangled in constitutional disputes.
- Virginia has approved a law restricting teenagers to 60 minutes of social media time per day, with additional time needing a guardian's okay.
- Georgia, The state of Tennessee, and Louisiana have similarly passed measures mandating parental consent for minors to create social media profiles.
Even with bipartisan support and suggestions from certain individuals to copy Australia's example, a federal ban is presently seen as improbable.
Global Outlook
Beyond Europe and the US, further states are also considering moves.
- Malaysia aims to restrict social media for under-16s beginning next year.
- Brazil has increased the required age for one major platform to 16.
However, international organizations adopt a more measured tone. A major UN agency has cautioned that age-based restrictions pose dangers and "may even backfire". The organization points out that online platforms can be a "critical link" for marginalized children and that government action should not be a "excuse" for tech companies to invest in safety.
While this worldwide conversation unfolds, the actions of the Australian government and its followers indicate that governments internationally are less and less content to delay for the industry to act voluntarily.
