The nation's controversial action to restrict social platforms access for those under 16 is creating waves around the globe. Lawmakers, campaigners, and guardians are observing intently to see if this strategy will set a precedent for countries abroad.
European Momentum
Across Europe, a growing group of nations are exploring parallel measures.
- Denmark plans a ban on social media for under-15s, with the leader declaring that mobile devices and networks are "robbing our kids' childhood". A law could be passed soon.
- Norway is planning to implement a access barrier of 15, citing the need to safeguard young people from the "power of the algorithms".
- Ireland is introducing a digital wallet to authenticate the identity and age of social media users. Authorities have indicated that an Australia-style ban could be "an options on the table".
- In Spain, the president has urged parliament to approve a law lifting the access age for using social media to 16.
- In The French government, the leader has threatened a ban for children below 15, and a government panel has recommended a comparable step, including an overnight "internet blackout" for adolescents.
- The administration in the Netherlands has recommended families to prevent their youngsters from social media until 15.
At the EU level, the EU parliament has adopted a non-binding motion calling for a ban for under-16s unless a parent decides otherwise is granted. Even though it cautions of the "habit-forming" quality of these apps, the resolution does not create binding law.
"A strong age restriction is a good starting point," stated the European lawmaker behind the resolution.
Britain: A Cautious Stance
In the UK, the administration has remained open to a potential ban, arguing that "no option is discarded" but stressing any decision must be "grounded in conclusive evidence".
Last year, interest built behind a legislative effort to introduce limits on social media use by under-16s, but it was eventually watered down. Nonetheless, the government pledged to further research the issue.
Charities have raised concerns. One foundation founded by the loved ones of a teenager who died after being exposed to disturbing online content suggests that a simple age ban could fail to improve online safety and could create a "cliff edge" of risk when teens become eligible.
"Australia's ban is a response to the inability of the social media companies to create tools that are safe and fit for young users," commented a prominent peer.
America: A State-by-State Landscape
Across America, regulation is largely happening at the state level against a backdrop of national gridlock.
- The state of Utah requires adult approval for under-18s to use social media and controls overnight use.
- The state of Florida has enacted a law prohibiting those below 14 from joining social media, though it is subject to court battles.
- Virginia has passed a law limiting teenagers to 60 minutes of social media access per day, with any further access needing a guardian's okay.
- Georgia, The state of Tennessee, and Louisiana have likewise enacted measures requiring adult authorization for minors to set up social media presences.
Despite widespread concern and suggestions from certain individuals to copy the Australian lead, a US-wide ban is presently seen as a distant prospect.
Worldwide Perspectives
Apart from Europe and the US, additional nations are likewise considering moves.
- Malaysia aims to prohibit social media for under-16s beginning next year.
- Brazil has raised the access age for the platform Instagram to 16.
But, world organizations strike a more cautious stance. Unicef has advised that age-based restrictions have downsides and "may even have unintended consequences". The organization notes that online platforms can be a "critical link" for vulnerable children and that bans should not be a "replacement" for platform operators to prioritize child safeguards.
Even as this international discussion evolves, the steps of the Australian government and others demonstrate that governments around the world are increasingly content to wait for tech companies to self-regulate.
