The European Union is preparing to introduce strict new rules to limit how young children interact with online platforms. Based on expert recommendations, the bloc plans to ban kids under 13 from using social media altogether. The proposed changes also outline a system for phased and gradual access for teenagers, marking a major shift in how governments handle digital safety and online well-being.
Platforms must prove their safety before teenagers gain gradual access
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen recently shared that the focus should be on when social media can access children, rather than the other way around. Following advice from a special panel of doctors and youth experts, the plan calls for a strict cutoff date for when children can first create accounts. Kids under 13 would only be allowed to use these services for limited times under direct supervision from a parent or teacher.
Once a child turns 13, the restrictions will slowly begin to lift. However, this gradual access depends entirely on the platforms themselves. Tech companies will have to prove that their services are safe and age-appropriate before teenagers can use them freely. A formal legal proposal to enforce these rules across all member states is expected in the second half of the year.
The new digital rules target addictive designs from large companies
This new initiative builds on previous actions taken by European lawmakers to protect younger users. The region has already started targeting the addictive nature of modern apps. For example, lawmakers have warned large tech platforms about specific design choices that keep users hooked for hours.
Features like the infinite scrolling feeds found on Facebook and other sites might soon face heavy restrictions if they are proven harmful to mental health. The European Union has repeatedly pressured Meta and similar businesses to rethink how their apps operate. If these companies cannot show effective safety measures, popular apps like Instagram could be forced to change how they deliver content to younger audiences or face massive fines.
