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The nation's controversial policy to restrict social platforms access for young people below 16 is creating waves around the globe. Politicians, campaigners, and guardians are observing with great interest to see if this tactic will inspire imitation for countries abroad.

European Movement

Throughout Europe, a increasing number of states are moving toward parallel measures.

• Denmark has stated a ban on social media for youth below 15, with the prime minister arguing that phones and apps are "robbing our kids' youth". A law is expected to be passed next year.
• Norway is preparing to introduce a access barrier of 15, highlighting the need to protect the young from the "influence of the algorithms".
• Ireland is developing a digital wallet to verify the identity and age of social media users. Officials have stated that an Australia-style ban remains "a potential measures under consideration".
• In The Spanish government, the president has asked the legislature to pass a proposal lifting the minimum age for using social media to 16.
• In France, the president has proposed a ban for under-15s, and a parliamentary commission has recommended a comparable step, potentially involving an overnight "digital curfew" for 15- to 18-year-olds.
• The government in The Netherlands has advised guardians to prevent their children from social media until 15.

Across the European Union, the European parliament has approved a non-binding statement supporting a ban for minors without parental consent is given. Even though it warns of the "compulsive" nature of these apps, the step does not establish binding law.

"A strong age barrier is a good foundation," stated a leading European lawmaker supporting the measure.

Britain: An Evidence-Based Stance

For the United Kingdom, the leadership has not ruled out a possible ban, arguing that "no measure is discarded" but stressing any policy must be "supported by conclusive evidence".

Last year, interest built behind a bill to impose restrictions on social media use by minors, but it was eventually modified. Instead, the government pledged to investigate the issue.

Charities have expressed concerns. One foundation established by the relatives of a young person who took her own life after viewing dangerous online content contends that a blanket age ban may not protect children and could result in a "sudden drop-off" of risk when users turn 16.

"The Australian ban is a response to the failure of the social media companies to build platforms and apps that are safe and age appropriate for young users," commented a leading child protection advocate.

The United States: A Decentralized Approach

Across America, action is largely unfolding at the local level against a backdrop of federal gridlock.

• Utah mandates adult approval for minors to use social media and restricts late-night use.
• Florida has enacted a measure prohibiting under-14s from joining social media, though it is entangled in court battles.
• Virginia has enacted a law limiting teenagers to one hour of social media time per day, with additional use requiring adult consent.
• Georgia, Tennessee, and Louisiana have similarly enacted bills requiring adult authorization for minors to create social media profiles.

Despite widespread concern and calls from certain figures to mimic the Australian lead, a US-wide ban is right now seen as unlikely.

International Perspectives

Outside of Europe and the US, additional states are likewise taking action.

• The Malaysian government intends to ban social media for those under sixteen beginning next year.
• Brazil has increased the required age for the platform Instagram to 16.

However, international bodies take a more nuanced tone. A major UN agency has advised that age-based restrictions pose dangers and "could have unintended consequences". The agency points out that online platforms can be a "vital connection" for marginalized children and that regulation should not be a "replacement" for tech companies to improve user protection.

Even as this global discussion continues, the policies of this nation and others demonstrate that governments internationally are less and less willing to stand by for platforms to self-regulate.