Global Trend: Countries Restricting Social Media Access for Minors
In recent months, a growing number of countries have announced intentions to limit or outright ban social media access for children and teenagers. Australia took the lead late last year, establishing a precedent that other nations are now closely observing. These initiatives aim to shield young users from the array of risks present on social platforms, including cyberbullying, the potential for addiction, negative impacts on mental health, and exposure to online predators.
However, the proposed measures are not without controversy. Concerns linger regarding the privacy implications of invasive age verification processes and the extent of government intervention in personal online activities. Critics, such as those from Amnesty Tech, argue that outright bans are ultimately ineffective and fail to acknowledge the realities of younger generations' digital lives. Despite these reservations, many countries are forging ahead with legislative proposals.
Here is a compilation of nations considering or implementing social media bans for their younger populations:
Australia
In December 2025, Australia became the first nation globally to implement a ban on social media for individuals under 16. This regulation specifically restricts access to platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Threads, TikTok, X, YouTube, Reddit, Twitch, and Kick, though it notably excludes WhatsApp and YouTube Kids. The Australian government has mandated that social media companies actively prevent underage users from accessing their services. Non-compliance could result in substantial penalties, up to 49.5 million AUD (approximately 34.4 million USD).
The government emphasizes that these platforms must employ robust age verification methods beyond self-reported ages to ensure users are indeed over 16.
Denmark
Denmark is poised to introduce a ban on social media platforms for children under 15. In November 2025, the Danish government announced it had garnered support for this measure from three coalition parties and two opposition parties. Official sources suggest the legislation could be enacted as early as mid-2026. The Danish Ministry of Digital Affairs is also developing a "digital evidence" application that includes age verification tools intended for use in conjunction with the ban.
France
In late January, French lawmakers approved a bill that would prohibit social media use for individuals under 15. President Emmanuel Macron has publicly backed the measure as a means to protect children from excessive screen time. The bill requires further approval from the Senate before a final vote in the lower house.
Germany
Early in February, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's conservative party discussed a proposal to ban social media for those under 16. However, reports indicated hesitation from their center-left coalition partners regarding an outright prohibition.
Greece
Reports from early February suggest Greece is nearing an announcement regarding a social media ban for children under 15.
Indonesia
In early March, Indonesia declared its intention to ban children under 16 from accessing social media and other popular online platforms. The initial focus is on platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Bigo Live, and Roblox.
Malaysia
The Malaysian government announced in November 2025 plans to ban social media for individuals under 16, with the implementation expected within the current year.
Slovenia
Slovenia is currently drafting legislation to prevent children under 15 from accessing social media platforms. The Deputy Prime Minister announced in early February that the government aims to regulate platforms where content is shared, citing examples like TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram.
Spain
Spain's Prime Minister announced in early February that the country intends to ban social media for those under 16, pending parliamentary approval. Additionally, the Spanish government is pursuing legislation to hold social media executives personally liable for hate speech disseminated on their platforms.
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom is evaluating the possibility of a social media ban for children under 16. The government has committed to consulting with parents, young people, and civil society to assess the potential effectiveness of such a ban. They will also consider whether social media companies should be required to limit or remove features that encourage compulsive usage, like endless scrolling.
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