Global Momentum Grows for Social Media Bans for Minors

A global movement to restrict children's access to social media is expanding as governments in several major economies pursue age-based bans. The trend is led by Australia, which implemented a nationwide ban for users under 16 on December 10, 2025. Australia's eSafety Commissioner reported that approximately 4.7 million accounts belonging to children were removed in early December. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated the reform aims to give children their childhood back.

In Germany, Chancellor Friedrich Merz has endorsed compulsory limits on social media to combat the influence of algorithms and fake news. The Christian Democratic Union is debating a motion to ban users under 16, while the Social Democratic Party has proposed a ban for those under 14 and restricted versions for ages 14 to 16. Implementation may rely on a digital wallet for age verification expected in 2027.

Ireland is pursuing a similar path through a Digital and AI Strategy, with Deputy Prime Minister Simon Harris describing teen social media use as a public health emergency. The Irish government plans to launch an age-verification pilot in March using a digital government ID wallet. Meanwhile, India's Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced consultations with platforms to determine appropriate age restrictions and regulations on deepfakes.

In the United States, President Donald Trump is considering a similar model after concerns were raised regarding the health and dopamine levels of children. Other nations, including France and Spain, have expressed support for such measures, with President Emmanuel Macron arguing that children's emotions should not be manipulated for sale.