EU announces plan to restrict social media access for children

The European Union has unveiled a plan to impose restrictions on social media usage for children under 16 years old, with the aim of enhancing their well-being and enhancing online safety. The proposal involves a phased approach to children using social media platforms, beginning with a ban for those under 13. For those aged 13 to 15, access would be limited to a maximum of one hour per day through a "mini account" created by their parent or guardian.

The European Commission insists that social media companies must demonstrate the safety of their platforms by design. EU President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized that this move would empower parents to regain control over their children's online experience. The legislation, dubbed the EU Kids Act, grants parents the necessary tools to assist their children in navigating a safer digital environment.

Only those aged 15 and above would be permitted to independently establish social media accounts. Von der Leyen has previously called for a "social media delay" for children in Europe, stating in May that the discussion surrounding a minimum age for social media accounts is no longer a topic to be dismissed. The comprehensive policy was officially announced on Thursday and was also previewed in von der Leyen's annual address to the EU Parliament on Wednesday.

Furthermore, several individual EU countries, including France and Spain, have independently proposed their own measures to restrict social media usage for children.