The European Union sets the minimum age for using social media: banning children under 13 years old
The European Parliament voted to set a minimum age for the use of social media, video platforms, and AI-supported services, banning access for children under 13 even with parental consent, aiming to protect young users from online harm.
European lawmakers have also urged the European Commission to ban addictive features on the internet and gambling-like mechanisms, with the possibility of banning sites that do not comply with the rules, pointing to the risks to mental health and the increasing dependence of children and teenagers on social media.
A recent parliamentary report showed that 78% of teenagers aged 13 to 17 check their phones at least once an hour, while a quarter of them suffer from problematic or unhealthy smartphone use, highlighting the urgent need for stricter regulations.
European Parliament member from CDU, Andreas Schwaf, pointed out that these measures give parents greater authority and ensure age-appropriate and safe digital experiences, emphasizing that the European Union needs rules that keep pace with the digital environment and rapidly changing user behaviors.
Some EU countries, including Denmark, are testing age verification software that restricts content for underage users without sharing their personal data. The European Commission will review expert proposals for implementation at the EU level by the end of the year, with support from President Ursula von der Leyen for minimum age rules.