The French government is renewing its efforts to restrict social media use among teenagers under the age of 15, proposing that this standard be adopted across the European Union. France already enforces a national law barring under-15s from accessing social media platforms, and it is urging other EU member states to consider a similar approach.
French Education Minister Anne Genetet highlighted the urgency of the issue during a meeting of EU education and youth ministers. She specifically called on Poland, which assumes the rotating presidency of the Council of the EU in January, to prioritise the initiative. Genetet pointed to Australia, where a social media ban for those under 16 is under discussion, as a model for Europe. “We would like something very similar to be put in place and enforced in Europe,” she remarked, emphasising the “emergency” nature of the matter.
Growing Concerns Over Social Media and Youth Mental Health
The push from Paris comes amid heightened scrutiny of social media’s impact on young people. Policymakers across Europe have raised alarms over the addictive nature of these platforms and their potential contribution to mental health challenges among teenagers. The French proposal aligns with broader EU efforts to regulate technology companies more stringently.
Denmark has voiced support for raising the minimum age for social media use, with Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen advocating for a 15-and-over restriction. Meanwhile, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has suggested launching an EU-wide inquiry into the effects of social media on young people’s mental health.
Legal and Technical Challenges
France’s earlier attempts to push this agenda faced resistance from the European Commission, notably from former Internal Market Commissioner Thierry Breton. Breton argued that France’s national legislation was inconsistent with the EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA), which governs content moderation and internal market rules.
However, shifting political attitudes may now favour France’s proposal. Genetet suggested that a Europe-wide technical solution, compliant with the DSA, could complement French law. Such a mechanism would harmonise restrictions across member states, ensuring consistent enforcement.
A Broader Digital Strategy for Children
France’s advocacy for a 15-and-over social media age minimum is part of a wider strategy to manage children’s screen time. Genetet outlined a set of recommendations tailored to different age groups. According to her guidelines, children under 3 should avoid screen exposure altogether, while those aged 3 to 6 should only view screens under parental supervision. Mobile phone use is discouraged before the age of 11, and social media access is deemed inappropriate before 15.
These measures reflect growing recognition of the developmental risks associated with excessive screen time. By proposing clear age thresholds, France aims to protect children from potentially harmful digital environments.
A Turning Point for EU Policy?
The French initiative comes at a critical juncture for EU digital policy. As the bloc continues its regulatory efforts to hold technology companies accountable, the question of social media’s impact on young people may become a focal point in upcoming debates.
Poland’s role in advancing the proposal will be pivotal as it assumes the Council presidency in 2024. Whether member states can reach a consensus on the issue remains uncertain, but France’s push highlights the urgency of addressing the intersection of technology, youth welfare, and mental health.
As policymakers weigh the balance between individual freedoms and safeguarding public health, the French proposal could mark a significant step towards creating a safer digital space for Europe’s younger generations.
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