France's constitutional authority strikes down social media ban for under-15s

The Constitutional Council in France has ruled against a proposed ban on social media access for children under 15, a move that disappoints President Emmanuel Macron's ambitious legislative push. The Council deemed Article 1 of the legislation inappropriate, unnecessary, and disproportionate to the freedom of expression and communication of minors.

Despite the setback, Macron thanked lawmakers for their support and vowed to implement the law by September. In response, the Elysee Palace announced that Macron has instructed Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu to draft a new, legally sound version of the legislation. Lecornu will need to expedite this process, taking all necessary measures to consider both the Constitutional Council's decision and the European regulatory framework.

Macron remains resolute in his commitment to see the reform through. In recent years, an increasing number of nations are enacting restrictions on social media access, driven by mounting concerns about its potential negative impacts on children's wellbeing.