The new law aims to protect children from online harms and will be enforced by September 2026
Category: Politics
France's parliament has passed a landmark law banning social media access for children under 15, making it the first European country to implement such a measure. The bill, which received overwhelming support in both houses of parliament, will require all users to verify their age to access social media platforms, including popular apps like TikTok and Instagram. The law is set to take effect in stages, with a ban on new accounts for under-15s starting September 1, 2026, and existing accounts subject to the same restrictions by January 2027, as reported by BBC News.
This legislative move comes as various countries, including the UK and Australia, are grappling with similar concerns over the impact of social media on children's mental health. President Emmanuel Macron has hailed the law as a key reform of his final term in office, asserting that "France is leading the way in Europe when it comes to protecting our children and teenagers." He emphasized the urgency of the measure, stating, "If someone is under 15, the account will be closed," according to The Guardian.
Digital Minister Anne Le Hénanff defended the timeline for implementation, arguing that age-verification tools already exist and can be effectively utilized by social media platforms. "For four months, all of us in France will have to prove our age," she noted, highlighting the government's commitment to safeguarding minors online. The law also includes a ban on mobile phones in high schools, extending restrictions already in place for primary and middle schools.
The push for this legislation stems from growing concerns about the harmful effects of social media on children. France's public health watchdog reported that platforms such as TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram are particularly detrimental to adolescents, especially girls. A report indicated that excessive smartphone use is linked to declining mental health among young people, with many spending two to five hours daily on their devices. Families have even filed lawsuits against TikTok, claiming that harmful content contributed to teen suicides.
As the first EU country to enact such a ban, France's approach may serve as a model for other nations. Countries like Australia have already attempted similar measures, but early evidence suggests that enforcement has been challenging. In Australia, a report revealed that seven out of ten children under 16 continued to access social media platforms after the ban was implemented.
Critics of the French law have raised concerns about privacy and the efficacy of age-verification tools. Some left-wing lawmakers argue that the law could infringe on online anonymity and that the speed of its implementation might not allow for adequate preparation. They have questioned whether the measures will be enforceable and if they adequately protect user data. Nonetheless, proponents of the ban assert that the need for regulation is urgent, particularly in light of the increasing evidence linking social media use to mental health issues.
The legislation was approved by a substantial margin in the National Assembly, passing with 279 votes in favor and 81 against. The bill's approval marks a notable shift in France's approach to digital regulation, with the government prioritizing child safety online. The law does allow exceptions for educational platforms and online encyclopedias, ensuring that children still have access to valuable resources.
As the law awaits final approval from the Constitutional Council, which will assess its compliance with French constitutional principles, the government is preparing for its rollout. Macron's administration has indicated that the ban will be enforced before the start of the new school year, emphasizing the importance of protecting children from potential online dangers.
With the law's passage, France joins a growing list of over 20 countries worldwide that have proposed or enacted measures to regulate children's access to social media. The European Commission is also considering broader regulations, with discussions on implementing EU-wide measures expected to take place in September 2026.
As other nations observe France's actions, the effectiveness of this law will be closely monitored. Experts suggest that involving young people in discussions about social media use is key to creating effective regulations. Tama Leaver, a Professor of Internet Studies, noted that any ban should be developed "with them and not to them," emphasizing the need for a collaborative approach.
As France prepares for the implementation of this landmark legislation, the outcome may influence similar initiatives across Europe and beyond. The law, which reflects a growing recognition of the risks posed by social media to children, could pave the way for a more regulated digital environment for young users.
In the coming months, the Constitutional Council's ruling will determine the law's final form and implementation timeline. As Macron's government seeks to make this measure a reality, the eyes of the world will be on France to see how effectively it can balance child protection with the challenges of modern digital life.