Social media is banned in France until the age of 14
France’s parliament has passed a new law banning the use of social media by children under the age of 15. Through this, France has taken such steps as the first country in the European Union.
The country’s president, Emmanuel Macron, has cited the law as one of his government’s biggest reforms. He said that the law will be implemented by next September.
In a video message posted on social media after the law was passed, Makhon said France is leading Europe in protecting children and adolescents. He thanked the members of parliament for passing the law. At the same time, he said, now after the approval of the Constitutional Council, the implementation of the law will begin.
The bill was passed by 279 votes in the National Assembly after approval by the upper house on Tuesday (21 July). 81 votes against it.
According to the new law, from September 1, people under the age of 15 will not be able to open a new social media account. After that, from January 2027, their previously opened accounts will also be closed.
Digital Affairs Minister Ane La Anna said that age verification technology is already ready. Users will be age verified within four months. If they are below 15 years of age, their account will be closed. However, he also assured that users’ personal information will be protected.
If this law comes into effect, the ban on the use of mobile phones in high schools will also be enforced from the new academic year.
Last year, France’s public health agency reported that social media such as TikTok, Snapchat and Instagram are having a negative impact on the mental health of teenagers, especially girls.
However, some online encyclopedias and educational websites are exempted from this law. Besides, no punishment has been imposed against the children or their guardians.
Following initiatives by France, Greece and Spain, the European Commission is also working on new policies on children’s use of social media. The Commission has piloted a new system for age verification.
Earlier last December, Australia became the first country in the world to restrict the use of social media by children under the age of 16. This time France walked the same path.
Times BD/ Humaira
