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The nation's controversial policy to restrict social networking access for young people below 16 is sparking debate around the globe. Officials, campaigners, and parents are watching intently to see if this tactic will set a precedent for the rest of the world.

European Momentum

Across Europe, a growing number of nations are moving toward similar bans.

• The Danish government has announced a prohibition on social media for youth below 15, with the leader stating that smartphones and apps are "robbing our kids' childhood". A law could be formalized soon.
• The Norwegian government is preparing to implement a age restriction of 15, citing the need to shield the young from the "influence of the recommendation systems".
• Ireland is introducing a digital ID system to verify the age and identity of social media participants. Authorities have indicated that an similar ban could be "an tools in reserve".
• In Spain, the leader has asked the legislature to pass a bill lifting the access age for using social media to 16.
• In France, the head of state has proposed a ban for children below 15, and a legislative committee has suggested a similar action, including an overnight "digital curfew" for adolescents.
• The administration in the Netherlands has recommended parents to restrict their youngsters from social media up to the age of 15.

Across the European Union, the EU parliament has approved a symbolic statement demanding a ban for teenagers under 16 unless guardian approval is given. Even though it cautions of the "addictive" quality of these platforms, the resolution does not create mandatory rules.

"A clear age limit is a solid first step," commented one MEP driving the measure.

The United Kingdom: An Evidence-Based Eye

Across Britain, the administration has kept open a potential ban, stating that "no option is being dismissed" but stressing any decision must be "supported by strong evidence".

Previously, momentum built behind a legislative effort to enact controls on social media use by minors, but it was in the end watered down. Nonetheless, the administration committed to conduct more studies the topic.

Charities have raised warnings. One foundation set up by the family of a girl who took her own life after encountering dangerous social media material argues that a blanket age ban may not protect children and could create a "cliff edge" of harm when teens reach the legal age.

"Australia's ban is a answer to the refusal of the tech sector to build platforms and apps that are appropriate and age appropriate for minors," commented a prominent online safety campaigner.

America: A State-by-State Landscape

Across America, regulation is largely occurring at the regional level against a backdrop of national gridlock.

• Utah demands parental consent for under-18s to use social media and controls late-night use.
• Florida has passed a law prohibiting children under fourteen from joining social media, though it is entangled in legal challenges.
• The state of Virginia has approved a law restricting minors to 60 minutes of social media time per day, with extra access needing a guardian's okay.
• The state of Georgia, Tennessee, and Louisiana have also enacted laws requiring adult authorization for under-16s to open social media accounts.

Despite widespread concern and proposals from certain politicians to follow Australia's path, a federal ban is currently seen as unlikely.

Global Perspectives

Outside of Europe and the US, additional countries are similarly considering moves.

• The Malaysian government intends to prohibit social media for under-16s beginning next year.
• Brazil has lifted the required age for one major platform to 16.

But, world bodies strike a more cautious stance. Unicef has warned that social media bans have downsides and "may even prove counterproductive". The body points out that social networks can be a "vital connection" for isolated children and that government action should not be a "substitute" for tech companies to prioritize child safeguards.

As this worldwide conversation unfolds, the actions of this nation and others demonstrate that states around the world are no longer prepared to delay for tech companies to act voluntarily.