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

European Union leaders, in a bid to safeguard children online, are urging tech giants to make social media safer rather than implementing blanket bans on minors accessing platforms, according to a letter addressed to EU chief Ursula von der Leyen. The letter was shared with AFP, with over 130 groups and experts backing the cause.

This plea comes just a week before von der Leyen is set to announce measures to protect children from dangerous content and addictive apps. The EU chief is expected to discuss an age limit, but details remain unclear. In July, von der Leyen expressed support for granting children gradual access to social media, ensuring platforms incorporated safety features by default.

The signatories, including organizations such as 5Rights Foundation, Amnesty International, and the Center for Countering Digital Hate, advocate for a Europe-wide framework for digital safety. They argue that the EU's strategy should prioritize the safety of technology children use, through robust enforcement of the Digital Services Act, instead of denying minors access to platforms.

The signatories recommend the EU set minimum standards and conditions for digital products and services to be deemed safe for age groups up to 18, incorporating proportionate age restrictions alongside strong safety measures. They emphasize the need for safe, age-appropriate digital services, urging tech companies to meet these standards before allowing access to children.