The nation's decisive action to prohibit social platforms access for those under 16 is creating waves worldwide. Lawmakers, safety advocates, and parents are monitoring with great interest to see if this approach will set a precedent for countries abroad.
European Trend
Across Europe, a rising number of countries are considering similar measures.
- Denmark plans a prohibition on social media for children under fifteen, with the leader stating that mobile devices and networks are "stealing our youngsters' innocence". A law may be enacted soon.
- Norway is preparing to implement a access barrier of 15, highlighting the need to safeguard young people from the "influence of the recommendation systems".
- Ireland is working on a digital ID system to confirm the identity and age of social media account holders. Officials have suggested that an Australian-model ban is "an options in reserve".
- In The Spanish government, the prime minister has called on the legislature to enact a bill raising the access age for using social media to 16.
- In France, the president has floated the idea of a ban for under-15s, and a government panel has suggested a related move, alongside an overnight "internet blackout" for 15- to 18-year-olds.
- The authorities in The Dutch government has advised guardians to restrict their children from social media up to the age of 15.
Across the European Union, the EU parliament has adopted a advisory motion calling for a ban for under-16s unless guardian approval is granted. While it highlights of the "habit-forming" quality of these platforms, the move does not enact enforceable legislation.
"A strong age barrier is a good starting point," commented a leading MEP behind the resolution.
Britain: A Watchful Approach
For the United Kingdom, the leadership has not ruled out a potential ban, stating that "no option is discarded" but insisting any decision must be "supported by robust data".
Last year, support grew behind a bill to impose limits on social media use by minors, but it was ultimately weakened. Instead, the administration committed to investigate the matter.
Charities have raised concerns. An organization set up by the loved ones of a girl who took her own life after being exposed to disturbing online content contends that a strict age ban may not improve online safety and could create a "sudden drop-off" of harm when users become eligible.
"The Australian ban is a reaction to the inability of the Silicon Valley to build tools that are appropriate and fit for minors," stated a leading child protection advocate.
The United States: A Fragmented Landscape
Stateside, action is primarily happening at the state government level amid country-wide inaction.
- Utah demands parental consent for minors to use social media and limits overnight use.
- Florida has passed a law banning under-14s from accessing social media, though it is subject to constitutional disputes.
- Virginia has passed a law restricting minors to one hour of social media use per day, with extra time requiring adult consent.
- The state of Georgia, Tennessee, and Louisiana have similarly introduced measures requiring adult authorization for under-16s to open social media presences.
Even with bipartisan support and suggestions from various politicians to mimic the Australian example, a federal ban is currently seen as unlikely.
Worldwide Outlook
Outside of these regions, additional states are also exploring options.
- The Malaysian government aims to restrict social media for those under sixteen beginning next year.
- Brazil has increased the access age for one major platform to 16.
However, international agencies take a more measured position. A major UN agency has advised that age-based restrictions carry risks and "could have unintended consequences". The body notes that online platforms can be a "critical link" for isolated children and that bans should not be a "substitute" for social media firms to prioritize child safeguards.
As this worldwide discussion unfolds, the policies of the Australian government and its followers indicate that governments globally are less and less content to delay for platforms to make changes on their own.
