The French government is moving forward with a proposed law that would ban children under the age of 15 from accessing social media platforms. Scheduled to take effect by September, this legislation aims to address concerns related to screen addiction and the negative impact of online content on young users.
Key Objectives of the Law
- Reduce children’s exposure to inappropriate content
- Improve mental health and overall well-being of young users
- Encourage safer online environments across the European Union
Measures Included in the Draft Legislation
- Mandatory age-verification systems for social media companies
- Prevention of account creation by children under 15
- Stricter monitoring and investment in advanced technology for compliance
Challenges and Reactions
Experts caution that enforcement could be complicated as children might bypass restrictions using fake identification or borrowing devices. Meanwhile, reactions from parents and educators remain mixed:
- Supporters appreciate efforts to protect children from harmful online influences
- Opponents worry about limitations on social interaction and learning opportunities
Government Collaboration and European Context
The French Minister of Digital Transformation emphasized cooperation with technology companies and child welfare organizations to develop effective solutions. This law is part of a larger European initiative aimed at enhancing digital safety for minors.
This planned restriction marks a significant step for youth online safety, potentially inspiring similar legislation in other countries.
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