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The Australian bold policy to ban social platforms access for individuals under sixteen is sparking debate around the globe. Lawmakers, campaigners, and families are monitoring with great interest to see if this strategy will set a precedent for other nations.

The European Movement

In Europe, a rising number of states are considering similar restrictions.

• Denmark has stated a ban on social media for under-15s, with the PM declaring that mobile devices and apps are "stealing our youngsters' innocence". Legislation may be enacted next year.
• The Norwegian government is preparing to introduce a minimum age limit of 15, citing the need to shield the young from the "manipulative force of the AI".
• Ireland is developing a digital ID system to confirm the user details of social media account holders. Authorities have indicated that an similar ban could be "a potential tools on the table".
• In Spain, the prime minister has urged lawmakers to approve a law lifting the legal age for using social media to 16.
• In France, the president has proposed a ban for children below 15, and a legislative committee has endorsed a related action, potentially involving an overnight "internet blackout" for 15- to 18-year-olds.
• The administration in The Netherlands has urged guardians to restrict their youngsters from social media before 15.

Across the European Union, the bloc's legislature has adopted a symbolic motion demanding a ban for under-16s unless parental consent is given. Although it warns of the "habit-forming" design of these platforms, the resolution does not create enforceable legislation.

"A clear age barrier is a good foundation," stated a leading MEP driving the measure.

The United Kingdom: A Cautious Approach

For the United Kingdom, the administration has not ruled out a potential ban, arguing that "no option is off the table" but stressing any decision must be "based on conclusive research".

Earlier, support grew behind a bill to enact restrictions on social media use by under-16s, but it was eventually watered down. Nonetheless, the government vowed to investigate the matter.

Advocacy groups have raised apprehensions. One foundation established by the loved ones of a girl who died after encountering disturbing social media material argues that a simple age ban might not protect children and could result in a "sudden drop-off" of harm when teens become eligible.

"This ban is a answer to the inability of the tech sector to build platforms and apps that are safe and suitable for young users," commented a leading child protection advocate.

The United States: A Decentralized Landscape

Across America, action is mostly occurring at the state government level against a backdrop of national inaction.

• The state of Utah demands adult approval for minors to use social media and restricts overnight use.
• Florida has passed a bill barring those below 14 from creating accounts on social media, though it is subject to constitutional disputes.
• The state of Virginia has approved a rule limiting under-16s to one hour of social media access per day, with additional time dependent on parental permission.
• Georgia, The state of Tennessee, and Louisiana have also introduced bills requiring parental consent for teenagers to set up social media presences.

Even with widespread concern and calls from certain politicians to mimic this example, a federal ban is right now seen as improbable.

Global Views

Outside of the West, additional countries are likewise considering moves.

• Malaysia plans to restrict social media for those under sixteen effective next year.
• Brazil has raised the required age for the platform Instagram to 16.

But, global organizations strike a more nuanced tone. Unicef has cautioned that age-based restrictions carry risks and "might prove counterproductive". The agency highlights that social networks can be a "vital connection" for isolated young people and that government action should not be a "replacement" for social media firms to improve user protection.

Even as this global discussion unfolds, the steps of Australia and several other countries show that governments internationally are increasingly content to delay for the industry to act voluntarily.