The European Union (EU) through European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has announced plans to limit young children’s access to social media across the EU. The move aims to protect them from online dangers through a phased age-based system.
The proposal from two experts suggests a phased approach, with children under 13 only allowed to use social media for short periods under the supervision of a parent, guardian or teacher. The restrictions would then be gradually relaxed as they get older.
Von der Leyen stressed that the key issue is no longer whether children are at risk online, but what can be done to give them a safer start online. She is expected to present formal proposals after the summer, with a full announcement due in September.
In addition to the EU, several other countries such as Australia, Britain, China, India and the United States have already imposed or are considering social media restrictions for young people, usually targeting big platforms such as TikTok, YouTube, Instagram and Facebook.
