In recent months, various countries have revealed plans to limit social media access for children and teens. Australia was the first to enforce such measures at the end of last year, setting an example that other nations are observing.
Australia’s regulations and other countries’ proposals aim to alleviate the pressures young users face on social media, such as cyberbullying, addiction, mental health issues, and exposure to predators.
There are concerns about privacy in terms of invasive age verification and government overreach. Critics like Amnesty Tech argue these bans are not effective and overlook the realities of younger generations. Nonetheless, many nations are advancing with legislative proposals.
Here’s a list of countries considering or implementing bans on social media for young users.
**Australia**
Australia banned social media for children under 16 in December 2025, blocking access to platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Threads, TikTok, X, YouTube, Reddit, Twitch, and Kick, except for WhatsApp and YouTube Kids. Companies not complying could face fines up to $49.5 million AUD ($34.4 million USD). Platforms must utilize multiple verification methods to ensure users are over 16, beyond self-reported ages.
**Austria**
In late March, Austria announced it would ban social media for children up to age 14, with draft legislation expected by June.
**Denmark**
In November 2025, Denmark planned to ban social media for children under 15. The government, supported by coalition and opposition parties, aims for a law by mid-2026 and is launching a digital evidence app with age verification tools.
**France**
In January, French lawmakers passed a bill to ban social media for those under 15, supported by President Macron to reduce excessive screen time. The bill must pass the Senate before a final lower house vote.
**Germany**
In February, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s conservatives considered a proposal to bar children under 16 from social media, though coalition partners appeared hesitant about a full ban.
**Greece**
In April, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced a ban on social media for children under 15 from January 2027, addressing anxiety, sleep issues, and social media’s addictive design.
**Indonesia**
In early March, Indonesia announced a ban for those under 16 from using social media and online platforms, starting with YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Bigo Live, and Roblox.
**Malaysia**
In November 2025, Malaysia planned to ban social media for children under 16, set to take effect this year.
**Poland**
Poland’s ruling party is preparing legislation to ban social media for children under 15, as reported in February.
**Slovenia**
In early February, Slovenia began drafting a law to ban social media access for children under 15, targeting platforms with shared content like TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram.
**Spain**
Spain aims to ban social media for under-16s, pending parliamentary approval. The government wants a law holding social media executives accountable for hate speech.
**Turkey**
In April, Turkey’s parliament passed a bill to restrict social media for children under 15. It awaits President Erdogan’s acceptance to become law.
**UK**
The UK is considering a social media ban for under-16s. The government plans to consult stakeholders to evaluate the ban’s efficacy and may require companies to limit features that promote compulsive use, like endless scrolling.
This story first appeared in February 2026 and receives regular updates.
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