France has taken a major step toward regulating children’s online activity. The country’s National Assembly has approved legislation that would ban children under 15 years old from accessing social media platforms. The decision reflects growing concern over online bullying, mental health issues, and the wider social impact of excessive screen time on minors.
The bill was passed on Monday with a strong majority. Lawmakers voted 116 in favor and 23 against. The legislation will now move to the Senate for review. A final vote in the lower house will follow. If approved, the ban could come into force as early as September, aligning with the start of the next academic year.
What the Proposed Social Media Ban Includes
The proposed law seeks to block under-15s from traditional social media platforms. It also targets “social networking functionalities” embedded within other digital services. This broad definition aims to prevent loopholes that could allow children to access social features indirectly.
Platforms would be required to introduce age-verification systems. These systems must comply with European Union data protection rules. The responsibility would fall on technology companies to ensure minors are unable to create or use accounts.
The bill also expands existing school policies. France already bans smartphones in junior and middle schools. Under the new proposal, this restriction would extend to high schools as well. Lawmakers argue that reducing screen exposure during school hours is essential for learning and concentration.
Supporters of the bill say the measures are overdue. They point to declining reading habits, reduced sleep, and rising anxiety among teenagers. The law aims to draw a clear boundary between childhood and the digital world.
Macron Pushes for Action as France Follows Australia
President Emmanuel Macron has publicly supported the ban. He has linked social media use to rising youth violence and behavioral issues. Macron has urged lawmakers to act swiftly and decisively.
France’s move closely follows Australia’s example. Australia introduced a world-first ban on social media access for under-16s. That law came into force in December and covers platforms such as Facebook, TikTok, Snapchat, and YouTube.
Macron wants France to adopt a similar approach. He believes early regulation will protect children from long-term harm. Several European countries are closely watching these developments. Britain, Denmark, Spain, and Greece are studying Australia’s model.
At the European level, the European Parliament has called for minimum age limits for social media access. However, enforcement remains the responsibility of individual member states.
Centrist lawmaker Laure Miller defended the bill during parliamentary debate. She said social media is not harmless. She described the legislation as a fight to protect children’s independence and mental freedom.
Public Support Strong but Enforcement Raises Questions
Public opinion in France largely supports the proposed ban. A 2024 Harris Interactive survey found that 73 percent of respondents favored restricting social media access for under-15s. Many parents view the issue as a public health concern.
Far-right lawmaker Thierry Perez described the situation as a health emergency. He questioned the long-term cost of unrestricted online expression on children’s development.
However, enforcement remains a challenge. Australia has already faced difficulties implementing its ban. Children quickly found ways to bypass age checks. French authorities acknowledge similar obstacles may arise.
Teenagers in Paris have expressed mixed reactions. Some agree social media can be harmful. Others believe a total ban goes too far and limits personal freedom.
Despite challenges, France appears determined to move forward.
