Following Australia’s example, the UK government is considering the possibility of banning social media for children under 16. Britain’s technology secretary, Peter Kyle, said the country would “do whatever it takes” to keep children safe online, in particular, the BBC reported.
Kyle hinted at a similar ban in Australia, saying “everything is on the table with me” but wanted to see more evidence first.
Kyle also announced further research into the effects of smartphones and social media on young people, acknowledging that there is currently “no hard peer-reviewed evidence”.
In a “Letter of Strategic Intent” to media regulator Ofcom, Mr Kyle outlined the regulator’s priorities as it takes on its new powers under the Online Safety Act (OSA).
Australia plans world’s first law to block social media for under-16s, ban pornography
Australia’s Communications Minister Michelle Rowland on Thursday introduced in Parliament the world’s first law banning children under 16 from using social media. The bill aims to address online safety, a growing concern for parents.
“This bill establishes a new social norm that access to social media should not define growth in Australia,” Rowland said, adding that young users are exposed to endless, unfiltered content. pointed out the risk of
The proposal has wide political support and, if passed, would give platforms a year to introduce restrictions.
Australia is also working on measures to block access to online pornography by people under 18.
Also read – When should children start using social media?
Social media giant faces $33 million fine over Australian ban
Platforms including TikTok, Facebook, Snapchat, Reddit, X, and Instagram could be fined up to $33 million for failing to prevent young children from creating accounts.
“This law places the onus on social media platforms, rather than parents and children, to ensure protection,” Communications Minister Michel Rolland said in a statement. “Ultimately, this is about supporting a safer and healthier online environment for young Australians.”
Also read – Australia’s social media ban for children finds support among Indian parents and others
Growing concerns about online victimization
Mr Rowland pointed out the dangers of social media for young people, with almost two-thirds of 14- to 17-year-olds exposed to harmful content, including substance abuse, self-harm and violent content. A quarter have encountered content that promotes unsafe eating habits.
Also read – Teenage social media use: Why banning is not the answer
Some online apps will be exempted from the ban
The ban excludes messaging apps, online gaming, and platforms focused on health and education. Rowland explained that these services do not rely on algorithms to curate harmful content or manipulate users into endless engagement.
Experts have expressed concern about teenagers aged 14 and 15 becoming isolated from their online social circles. Rowland acknowledged these concerns, but stressed the need for safety.
(Input from AP)
