French President Macron Pushes for Social Media Ban to Protect Children

French President Emmanuel Macron has once again advocated for restricting children’s access to social media in an effort to protect young people from the potential dangers associated with online platforms. Speaking during his New Year’s Eve address on December 31, 2025, Macron stressed the need for enhanced protections for minors in the digital age.

In response, French lawmakers are preparing to debate a new bill that would ban children from using social media. This legislation aims to create a safer online environment by addressing key issues such as:

• Cyberbullying
• Excessive screen time
• Exposure to harmful or inappropriate content

President Macron underscored the increasing risks that children and teenagers face without sufficient safeguards, including the negative effects on mental health, academic performance, and social development. The law proposes:

1. Setting clear age limits for social media usage
2. Mandating stricter age verification systems on platforms
3. Enhancing parental control tools
4. Promoting digital education programs to raise awareness among families

French officials hope these measures will serve as a model for other European nations and encourage broader adoption of protective standards for minors online. The move signals strong political determination to address the growing concerns surrounding the digital wellbeing of children.

Social media companies have been widely criticized for their inadequate protection mechanisms, often struggling to enforce age restrictions and shield young users from harm. The forthcoming parliamentary discussions will include insights from experts in child psychology, technology, and education to ensure that the ban is implemented in a manner that respects freedoms while safeguarding youth.

If enacted, this legislation would be a landmark step in regulating the online interactions of children in France, reflecting an expanding global call for stricter online safety measures tailored specifically to younger internet users.

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