New Year 2026: France to Ban Social Media for Children Under 15 – Which Countries Have Similar Age Limits?

France has announced a significant new measure to protect young users from the potential harms of social media by planning to ban children under the age of 15 from accessing social media platforms. This proposed law, expected to take effect by September 2026, seeks to address concerns over mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances linked to excessive screen time.

Details of the New French Law

The new legislation will raise the minimum age for social media access from the commonly accepted 13 years to 15 years, marking a substantial shift in regulatory standards. The law is part of a broader initiative that includes:

• Limiting overall screen time for young users
• Encouraging parental and educational involvement in online safety education
• Mandating stringent age verification technologies for social media companies

International Comparisons

France is not alone in tightening age restrictions on social media. Across Europe, various countries have implemented or are considering similar measures:

1. Germany and the Netherlands: Set the minimum age at 14 for certain platforms
2. United Kingdom: Currently recommends 13 but is contemplating stricter rules

Expert Opinions and Concerns

Experts have expressed mixed views about these age limits. The benefits of reducing exposure to harmful content and cyberbullying are weighed against potential drawbacks, including:

• Reduced opportunities for social interaction
• Potential barriers to developing digital literacy skills

Role of Social Media Companies and Parents

Social media companies will be required to implement robust age verification systems to enforce the new age limit. Meanwhile, parents will have an important role in supervising online activities, supported by government programs promoting healthy internet habits and screen time management.

Conclusion

This French legislation reflects a growing European trend to balance protecting children from digital risks with encouraging responsible and informed usage of social media. As the law approaches implementation, it will be crucial to monitor its effects on youth well-being and digital engagement.

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