France has passed legislation requiring age verification for social media access, becoming the first European nation to implement such a ban for children under 15.
Key facts
- •The French ban on social media for under-15s is scheduled to take effect in January 2027.
- •Platforms must use age-verification tools approved by the French privacy regulator.
- •Australia previously implemented a ban for under-16s in December, though reports indicate many children retained access.
- •The UK has announced plans to ban social media for under-16s starting in January 2027.
- •European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has proposed a social media delay for children in Europe.
The French parliament has approved a law prohibiting social media access for children under 15, effective January 2027. The legislation requires all users in France to verify their age to access these platforms. President Emmanuel Macron supported the measure, which follows similar legislative efforts in the UK and the European Union aimed at addressing concerns regarding children's mental health.
Implementation and Regulatory Requirements
Under the new law, social media platforms must utilize age-verification tools that have been approved by the French privacy regulator. Digital Minister Anne Le Hénanff defended the implementation timeline, stating that the necessary technology for age verification is already available. The legislation was adopted by both the French Senate and the National Assembly.
Global Context and Concerns
France is the second country to introduce such a ban, following Australia, which prohibited social media for those under 16 in December. Critics have raised concerns regarding the efficacy of age-verification tools, the potential for young people to bypass restrictions, and risks to user privacy. Experts have also noted that such bans may push minors toward less-regulated online spaces and limit their access to news and political engagement.
Timeline
- DecemberAustralia implemented a ban on social media for children under 16.
- MarchAustralia's eSafety Commission reported that seven out of 10 children under 16 still had social media access.
- MayEuropean Commission President Ursula von der Leyen proposed a social media delay for children.
- JuneFormer UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced a social media ban for under-16s starting in 2027.
- January 2027France's ban on social media for children under 15 is scheduled to take effect.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by BBC Business.
