French Parliament Passes Social Media Ban for Under-15s

France has become the first European Union nation to pass a bill banning social media access for children under the age of 15. The legislation, championed by President Emmanuel Macron as a key protective measure, aims to mitigate the harmful effects of digital content on minors' mental health.

The policy mandates that new account registrations for children under 15 will be blocked starting September 1, 2026. Restrictions on existing accounts are scheduled to take effect in January 2027. While proponents argue that this creates a vital safeguard comparable to age restrictions for alcohol, critics from parties like France Unbowed have voiced concerns regarding the enforceability and potential impact on online anonymity.

Despite the parliamentary approval, the measure must now undergo a review by the Constitutional Council to ensure compliance with French law. The government intends for the ban to be fully operational in time for the upcoming school year. This move aligns with a growing global trend as nations increasingly scrutinize the role of major tech platforms in the lives of adolescent users.