Comprehensive Social Media Regulation for Children from the European Union
The European Union is taking new legal steps to ensure the digital safety of children, including a social media ban for those under 13 and a parent-controlled mini-account period for 13-to-14-year-olds.
The European Union is implementing a comprehensive legal process to increase the protection of children on digital platforms and to regulate major technology companies.
Scope of the New Legal Regulation
The European Union is initiating a revolutionary process to enhance children's safety on digital platforms and balance the power of big tech companies. Age restriction initiatives launched individually by member states are being transformed into a massive legal regulation covering the entire bloc.
Restrictions Introduced by Age Groups
According to statements made, children's social media use across Europe will face radical restrictions. While social media use will be completely banned for children under 13, opening personal accounts will be prohibited for those under 15.
For teenagers aged thirteen and fourteen, a parent-supervised mini-account option limited to just 1 hour per day will be offered.
European Commission's Message of Determination
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen shared concrete steps to be taken to protect children in the online world during her speech in the city of Strasbourg. She emphasized that those who set the rules are themselves, not big tech companies.
Age Restriction Developments in Europe
Following Australia becoming the pioneering country to ban social media for under-16s in December 2025, European countries have also taken action one after another. Countries such as France, Spain, Denmark, and Sweden are among those introducing various age restrictions.