EU Officials Consider Social Media Ban for Children This Summer

Officials stated that discussions about a minimum age for social media can no longer be ignored. The plans include consideration of a social media delay for children.

Depending on the results of ongoing reviews, a legal proposal could be introduced this summer. The proposed timeline could allow Brussels to move ahead of new French legislation expected to come into force in September. The law would require platforms including Instagram and TikTok to block users under the age of 15 and suspend existing accounts.

One of the main challenges for the EU has been finding a common technical solution for age verification. Platforms would be expected to use the system to ensure only users above a certain age can access their services. Officials referred to an EU age-verification app modelled on the bloc’s EU Digital COVID Certificate system.

While the Commission has formally recommended the app to member states, several governments have reacted cautiously. Cybersecurity experts have also raised concerns over potential technical vulnerabilities. The EU is not alone in considering tougher restrictions on children’s social media use.

Australia and Indonesia have already introduced similar measures. Meanwhile, Brussels has placed platforms including Instagram and Snapchat under scrutiny under the Digital Services Act over concerns they failed to protect minors adequately. "We all know that sustainable change does not happen overnight.

But if we are slow and hesitant, it will be another entire generation of children that pays the price," an official said.