Australia leads with groundbreaking ban on under-16s’ social media use
Australia has become the first country in the world to enact a law banning individuals under 16 from using social media. This new law aims to protect the mental health of young people.
4:51 PM EST, November 28, 2024
The Australian parliament's decision means that children and teenagers will not be able to use platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or X. Technology companies that do not comply with the new regulations face hefty fines of $33 million.
The bill passed in the Senate by a majority of 34 votes to 19, and a day earlier in the House of Representatives by 102 to 13. Although the House still needs to approve the amendments made by the Senate, this is merely a formality as the government has agreed to their adoption.
Australia introduces social media ban for children under 16
Social media platforms have one year to develop systems to verify users' ages before the new regulations take effect. Testing of enforcement methods will begin in January, and full implementation is planned for a year from now.
Australian politicians argue that implementing these restrictions is necessary due to social media's negative impact on young people's mental health. They aim to protect the younger generation from the dangers that arise from improper internet use.
In other countries, such as France and some states in the USA, restrictions on social media access for minors without parental consent have already been introduced. However, compared to those regulations, Australian law is the most stringent. For example, a total ban for children under 14, introduced in Florida in March 2024, is being challenged in court due to freedom of speech issues.
According to surveys, as many as 77% of Australians support the ban. Despite this, there is no shortage of criticism against the new law. Opponents, including young people and scientists, warn that the restrictions may cut off marginalized young people from online support groups, especially within LGBTQIA communities and among teenage migrants.
The Australian Human Rights Commission has expressed concerns that the law may violate the rights of young people, limiting their ability to participate in social life. It is emphasized that access to social media is often an important communication and support tool for many.
