After years of unchecked digital exposure, some of the world’s most advanced nations have finally begun to acknowledge a hard truth: unrestricted access to social media has been deeply affecting young minds.
This week, Australia became the first country to impose a blanket ban on social media access for children under the age of 16, marking a decisive shift in how governments view the responsibility of protecting minors in the digital age.
The move, which restricts access to platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, is aimed at preventing children from exposure to online harms, including addiction, cyberbullying, algorithm-driven content loops and psychological stress.
While critics argue that the law may be difficult to enforce and could push children toward less regulated corners of the internet, the broader global response suggests that Australia’s decision has struck a powerful chord.
Though many believe this realization should have come much earlier, the step is widely being seen as commendable and future-oriented, placing the well-being of children above commercial and technological interests.
A Global Shift in Thinking
Australia’s decision has triggered renewed debate and policy action across continents.
Governments that once hesitated to intervene in digital habits are now openly questioning whether social media companies should have unfettered access to children’s lives.
New Zealand has already indicated that it will engage with Australian authorities as it considers its own measures to curb excessive social media use among minors. Similar conversations are unfolding across Europe and Asia.
Denmark: Europe’s Toughest Proposal Yet
Denmark could soon become the first European Union country to introduce a national age limit for social media use.
The Danish government has proposed barring children under 15 years of age, while allowing parental consent for those aged 13 and above.
Announcing the proposal, Denmark’s Minister for Digital Affairs, Caroline Stage Olsen, stated that tech platforms had enjoyed “free rein in children’s rooms for far too long.”
The government cited evidence that social media business models are designed to maximize user retention—often leading to addictive behaviour among children.
If passed, the law would represent the strongest social media restriction in the EU, signalling Europe’s growing concern about digital well-being.
Malaysia: Preparing for a 2026 Ban
Malaysia has announced plans to ban children under 16 from using social media platforms starting in 2026.
Authorities are exploring mandatory age verification systems, including electronic Know Your Customer (eKYC) methods that use official identification and biometric data.
Malaysia’s Communications Minister has confirmed that the government will consult Australia to understand how such a ban can be practically enforced—an acknowledgment of Australia’s pioneering role in this area.
European Union: Strong Signals From the Top
The European Union, already known for its tough regulation of tech giants, is now weighing stronger action.
In her State of the Union address, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen openly praised Australia’s approach, saying: Parents, not algorithms, should be raising our children.”
She announced plans to convene an expert panel to explore further restrictions. Lawmakers in France, Spain and Romania have also floated proposals inspired by Australia’s model.
Different Paths: Britain, China and the US
Not all countries have opted for blanket bans.
- Britain has chosen targeted regulation, using privacy laws to restrict access to harmful content and mandating age verification for pornography and certain online services.
- China, already known for tight digital controls, limits screen time for children and strictly regulates social media and gaming usage.
- The United States remains constrained by free-speech laws and state-level legislation, making a nationwide ban difficult, though some states have attempted restrictions.
India’s Approach: Regulation Without a Ban
India has not imposed a direct ban on children’s use of social media. However, under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, platforms must obtain verifiable parental consent before processing the personal data of users under 18.
The law also prohibits targeted advertising, behavioural tracking and data processing that could harm a child’s well-being—reflecting India’s growing concern over the impact of digital platforms on young users.
A Step Toward a Healthier Digital Future
The emerging global consensus is unmistakable: social media, left unchecked, can distort childhood, affect mental health and reshape young minds in damaging ways.
While these governments may be late to the realization, their actions signal a crucial shift—from prioritizing platform growth to prioritizing children’s well-being.
Australia’s move may be the first of its kind, but it is unlikely to be the last.
As more countries reconsider the role of technology in shaping the next generation, these steps could lay the foundation for a healthier, safer and more balanced digital future.
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