Rein in social media not children, say over 130 groups, experts

A letter sent to EU chief Ursula von der Leyen by over 130 groups and experts suggests the European Union should compel tech giants to make social media safe before minors use them, rather than banning them outright. This call comes a week before von der Leyen is set to announce measures to protect children from dangerous content and addictive apps.

While officials have been tight-lipped on the specifics, including whether the ban will apply only to social media or extend to gaming platforms, Von der Leyen previously indicated support for gradual access to social media for children with built-in safety features. Over 132 children's rights, digital rights, and mental health organizations, including the 5Rights Foundation, Amnesty International, and the Center for Countering Digital Hate, have signed the letter.

They advocate for a Europe-wide framework emphasizing the safety of technology children use, such as enforcing the Digital Services Act, rather than denying minors access to platforms. The letter urges the EU to set minimum standards and conditions for digital products and services to be deemed safe for users up to 18 years old, with age-based limits on high-risk features.

Leanda Barrington-Leach, executive director of the 5Rights Foundation, emphasized the need for a balanced approach that protects and empowers children through safe, age-appropriate digital environments.