New Zealand to introduce bill for under-16s social media ban

New Zealand plans to introduce a bill that would prohibit children under the age of 16 from using social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, and Facebook. The proposed legislation aims to protect children from harmful content, addictive technology, and pressures they are not yet equipped to handle. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon emphasized the adverse impact of social media on children's family life, mental health, sleep, and education.

To enforce the ban, platforms would need to verify users' age and implement measures like facial age estimation and digital identity checks. Non-compliant companies could face fines equivalent to up to 10% of their global revenue. However, the bill faces opposition from several political parties, including Prime Minister Luxon’s own coalition partners, Act and New Zealand First.

Critics argue that the ban would be ineffective and lead to a slippery slope, while also citing recent legal challenges to similar proposals in Australia and France.