France Aims to Ban Social Media Use for Children Under 15 by September 2024

The French government is set to introduce a law banning social media use for children under the age of 15 starting in September 2024. This initiative aims to protect children from the risks associated with excessive screen time and online harm.

Key Provisions of the Proposed Law

• Age Restriction: Children under 15 will be prohibited from creating accounts on major social media platforms.
• Age Verification: Platforms must implement strict verification systems to prevent unauthorized access.
• Penalties: Social media companies will face consequences if they do not comply with the regulations.

Rationale Behind the Legislation

French authorities are concerned about the negative impacts of social media on young people’s mental health. Studies have linked prolonged screen usage with increased cases of anxiety, depression, and digital addiction among children and teenagers. The law is part of a broader strategy to promote digital well-being and encourage healthier habits.

Support and Opposition

• Supporters: The Ministry of Education and Ministry of Health back the law, emphasizing the need to foster offline engagement and provide guidelines to schools and parents for managing screen time.
• Critics: Some opponents argue that enforcement may be challenging and fear that children might circumvent restrictions by using social media secretly.

Next Steps

The French Parliament is expected to debate and vote on the law in the upcoming months. If passed, France will become one of the first European countries to establish a minimum age of 15 for social media use. This legislation represents a significant move toward ensuring the safety and well-being of young users in the digital age.

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