Dutch gov’t against national age limit on social media; Prefers EU regulation
The Dutch government has said that any minimum age requirement for social media should be introduced across the European Union rather than by individual countries.
Speaking in parliament, State Secretary Willemijn Aerdts of D66 argued that a coordinated European approach would prevent a patchwork of different national rules and make age restrictions more effective. She noted that a growing number of EU countries are considering similar measures, with the number rising from nine to 14 in recent months.
Aerdts said she supports setting a minimum social media age of around 15 years. According to her, social media platforms are currently not safe enough for young users because of addictive algorithms and the spread of harmful content that is not adequately moderated.
She also stressed that any age-verification system must protect users’ privacy. Aerdts said she opposes methods that would require children to identify themselves using webcams or passports.
The proposal is included in the coalition agreement between D66, VVD, and CDA, and a majority in the Dutch parliament has previously expressed support for introducing a minimum age for social media use.
However, some experts remain skeptical. Earlier this year, the Trimbos Institute argued that age limits alone would not necessarily make children safer online. Researchers said digital platforms should bear greater responsibility for user safety and warned that young people often find ways around restrictions, potentially making it harder for them to seek help when problems arise online.