France to Ban Social Media Use for Under-15s Starting September 2026

The French government has announced plans to ban social media use for children under 15 starting September 2026, aiming to protect young people from harmful online experiences on platforms like Facebook, Snapchat, and YouTube.

Key Details of the Proposed Regulation

• A draft bill will be submitted for legal review to enforce this age restriction.
• Social media companies must implement robust age verification to prevent under-15s from accessing accounts or content.
• Enhanced parental controls will be introduced to help families manage time and exposure to online content.

Reasons for the Ban

Health officials and child welfare advocates have raised concerns about the negative effects of social media on children’s mental health, including:

1. Cyberbullying.
2. Exposure to inappropriate content.
3. Addiction to digital devices.

The government believes stricter rules will help reduce these risks and promote healthier online habits.

Industry and Government Perspectives

• Social media firms acknowledge the need for protecting young users but warn of enforcement challenges.
• They advocate for complementary educational programs to encourage responsible internet use.
• Lawmakers aim for a balanced approach to protect children without overly limiting their opportunities for social engagement and digital learning.

Impact and Global Context

If enacted, France would be one of the first European countries to set a nationwide social media age limit at 15 years. This move follows Australia’s ban for users under 13 and is part of a global trend to enhance youth online safety as the digital environment evolves.

The French government plans to finalize the bill and begin enforcement by the 2026 school year, marking a major milestone in protecting children’s well-being online.

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