EU Parliament Signals Push for Under-16 Social Media Restrictions – AI Matters
The European Parliament has adopted a resolution expressing support for restricting social media access for individuals under the age of 16, unless parental consent is given. The non-binding resolution,passed with 483 votes in favor,92 against,and 86 abstentions,reflects growing concerns regarding the impact of social media on children’s mental health and well-being.
The resolution is expected to increase pressure on the European Commission, the body responsible for proposing EU legislation, to consider concrete measures. The Commission is currently reviewing Australia’s recently passed law which bans social media for under-16s, set to take effect next month, as a potential model. European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen previously stated her intention to monitor the Australian policy’s implementation, highlighting concerns about algorithms designed to exploit children’s vulnerabilities and create addictive behaviors.
The move aligns with a broader global trend towards limiting children’s access to digital platforms. A report commissioned by French President Emmanuel Macron last year recommended banning smartphone use until age 13 and delaying access to platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat until age 18.
Danish lawmaker Christel Schaldemose, the author of the resolution, emphasized the need for societal intervention, stating that ensuring safe online spaces for minors is not solely the duty of parents. The resolution specifically calls for platforms to disable addictive features, such as infinite scrolling, auto-playing videos, and excessive push notifications, by default for younger users.
The resolution has faced criticism from some lawmakers who argue that decisions regarding children’s online access should be left to individual member states. Kosma Złotowski, a Polish MEP, argued against centralized control from Brussels.
The vote comes shortly after the European Commission announced a postponement of amendments to digital laws, including the Artificial Intelligence Act, citing a desire for “simplification.” Despite acknowledging the need to avoid over-regulation, Schaldemose affirmed a commitment to prioritizing the protection of children within the EU, stating, “Ther is a willingness to do more when it comes to children and their protection in the EU.”
