EU Proposes Social Media Ban For Children Under 13, Curbs For Teenagers

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has proposed banning children under 13 from using social media across the European Union’s 27 member states, while placing restrictions on access for older teenagers. This proposal is part of efforts to protect children and teenagers from online harm. Von der Leyen emphasized that she disagrees with the notion that Big Tech’s power is overwhelming and cannot be rolled back, stressing the need to prevent addictive features, extreme content, and the misuse of photos for AI-generated sexualized images.

Children aged 13 to 15 would be granted "mini accounts" supervised by guardians, with restrictions on features and the time spent on platforms. For those aged 15 to 18, social media platforms would need to provide a "safe design." The EU's member states must debate and vote on the proposal, which could take years and potentially lead to tensions with the US.

Von der Leyen believes platforms must demonstrate safety, and the plan urges platforms to prove their safety measures. India remains at 131st rank in the Global Gender Gap Index 2026, with Iceland topping the list.