France Sets Bold Plan to Ban Social Media for Under-15s and Mobile Phones in Schools

The French government has unveiled a bold plan to regulate youth exposure to digital technology, focusing on banning social media access for children under 15 and prohibiting mobile phone use in high schools nationwide.

Key Measures in the Plan

• Ban on Social Media for Under-15s: Social media platforms will be required to implement stricter age verification processes to prevent users below 15 years from accessing their services.
• Mobile Phone Ban in High Schools: Students will not be allowed to use mobile phones during school hours to reduce distractions, bullying, and promote face-to-face interaction.

Objectives and Support

The initiative is part of broader efforts to shield young people from the negative effects of digital overuse, focusing on improving mental health, social skills, and academic performance. Parents and schools will receive increased support to effectively manage children’s screen time.

Implementation and Reactions

1. The French government will collaborate with social media companies, educational institutions, and health experts for smooth policy enforcement.
2. Critics express concerns about enforcing the bans and possible impacts on students’ communication with family.
3. Supporters emphasize the benefits in combating digital addiction and cyberbullying.

The plan is scheduled for rollout later in 2026 and may inspire similar initiatives across Europe, as countries strive to balance the advantages of technology with the wellbeing of youth.

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