France Aims to Shield Youth: Proposed Social Media Ban for Minors Under 15

In a bid to safeguard children from excessive screen time, France is pushing for a social media ban for minors under 15 by next September. Backed by President Emmanuel Macron, the draft law seeks to limit the risks associated with digital screens, including exposure to 'inappropriate content' and cyber-harassment. The proposal, which also includes a ban on mobile phone use in secondary schools, follows Australia's recent move to block under-16s from social media. The French government cites numerous studies confirming the dangers of excessive digital use among adolescents. To mitigate these risks, the draft law aims to make it illegal for online platforms to provide social media services to minors under 15. However, enforcing this ban and complying with international law may pose challenges. France has previously encountered issues with European Union rules, including a 'digital legal age' law passed in 2023 that has been blocked. In a separate development, the French Senate has endorsed an initiative to protect teenagers from excessive screen time and social media access. The proposal, which includes a requirement for parental authorization for children aged 13-16 to register on social media sites, has been submitted to the National Assembly for approval. If passed, the law would mark a significant step towards shielding minors from the potential harms of excessive digital use.