New Digital Regulation from the European Union to Protect Children
The European Union has prepared a legal regulation containing gradual restrictions and new rules according to age groups to protect children from the harms of virtual media.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen shared the details of the new legal regulation prepared to protect children from the negative effects of virtual media with the public.
Details of the EU Children's Act Bill
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen shared the details of the EU Children's Act bill, which aims to protect children from the negative effects of virtual media, during her speech at the European Parliament. It was stated that with the legal regulation to be officially presented on Thursday, children will be placed under a gradual protection shield according to their age groups.
Gradual Restrictions by Age Groups
According to the bill, access to virtual media platforms for children under the age of 13 will be completely blocked. Children between the ages of 13 and 15, on the other hand, will only be able to log in via mini accounts that can be opened under parental supervision, have limited features, and allow a maximum of one hour of use per day.
Safe Design Obligation for Youth
Within the scope of the regulation, strict measures will also be taken for minors between the ages of 15 and 18. Social media companies will be required to put into effect safe design models that remove algorithmic features that fuel excessive use and screen addiction for this age group.
Burden of Proof for Technology Companies
Pointing out that the addictive algorithmic structures of virtual platforms cause serious problems such as sleep disorders, anxiety, and cyberbullying in children, von der Leyen stated that the burden of proof in the inspection mechanism will be transferred directly to the companies. Platforms will now have to prove that their systems are safe for children.
Approval Process and Global Scope
The legal text to be officially announced by the Commission on Thursday will then be submitted for the approval of the European Parliament and member states. When the regulation enters into force, it will cover all global technology giants operating in the EU market regardless of geographical location.