A panel of experts in the EU has recommended restricting social media access for children under 13, suggesting that such access should only occur under adult supervision or in educational settings. This proposal is expected to lead to legislative action from the European Commission in the coming months, aiming to protect young users from potential online harms.
The recommendation highlights growing concerns about the impact of social media on children’s development, with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen advocating for age-appropriate restrictions. She emphasised the need for children to engage in real-world activities rather than being shaped by algorithms, reflecting a shift towards prioritising mental health and social skills over digital engagement.
While some EU member states have considered similar measures, effective implementation will require a unified approach at the EU level. This is crucial as existing laws, such as the Digital Services Act, mandate child protection measures but lack comprehensive enforcement, particularly against major platforms like Meta.
As the EU moves towards these recommendations, it could set a precedent for other regions, following Australia’s recent introduction of age limits for social media access. The effectiveness of such measures remains a topic of debate, but the EU’s actions could significantly influence how social media companies operate concerning young users.
Source: DW News
