Canada’s social media ban for under-16s likely to face Charter challenge, experts say

OTTAWA - Canada's proposed ban on social media for children under 16 may face a constitutional challenge, according to experts. France's top court recently struck down its own social media ban for kids under 15, deeming it too broad and infringing on freedom of expression. Dalhousie University law professor Michael Karanicolas predicts a Charter challenge to Canada's law is almost inevitable, given the significant intervention in the social media space and expressive space.

The federal government introduced Bill C-34 in June for Parliament to review before becoming law. Social media platforms would need to implement safeguards to protect children, or qualify for an exemption. Critics argue the ban is too broad and infringes on freedom of expression and privacy, similar to France's court ruling. Experts emphasize the importance of social media for young people to voice their opinions on political issues and find community, and suggest a more targeted approach is needed to balance the interests of children and freedom of expression.