European Union Takes Step for Children's Social Media and Digital Age Limits
The European Commission aims to ban social media use for children under 13 and introduce a limited mini-account model under parental supervision for the 13-15 age group.
In her annual speech at the European Parliament, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced plans for a comprehensive age-based regulation aimed at increasing the digital safety of children across the European Union.
Step-by-Step Regulation Plan by Age Groups
EU member states are expected to adopt a step-by-step approach based on age groups in order to implement appropriate protective measures.
Ban for Children Under 13
According to the planned new regulations, children under the age of 13 will be completely banned from using social media platforms.
Parent-Supervised Mini Accounts for Ages 13-15
Individuals between the ages of thirteen and fifteen will only be allowed to use mini accounts created and managed by their parents or guardians.
Security Requirements for Ages 15-18
It was stated that young people between the ages of fifteen and eighteen will be able to continue using the platforms, but will be required to meet higher security requirements.
Disagreements Among Member States
The proposal received support from member states such as France, Germany, Portugal, Spain, Italy, and Greece.
Estonia, which has a strong information technology infrastructure, opposed an approach overly reliant on age restrictions, arguing that tech companies should be primarily responsible for safety on platforms.