Macron intends to ban social media for children under 15

In 2024, French President Emmanuel Macron announced intentions to prohibit access to social media for children younger than 15. This decision arose from recommendations made by the Screens Commission, a group formed by Macron that includes medical, psychological, and legal experts. The Commission advised that access to social media should only be granted to those above 15, the age they define as the digital majority. Macron highlighted that age verification should be feasible on social media platforms, making the ban plausible. He warned that if a broader European initiative was not in place soon, France would independently enact the social media ban. The motivation behind Macron's move is underscored by a recent tragic incident in France, where a teaching assistant was murdered by a 14-year-old student. This heartbreaking event has led to increased scrutiny over youth behavior and access to harmful content online. Macron linked the necessity of online safety for youth to a broader discussion on public safety, emphasizing that the rising violence involving minors cannot be overlooked. He stated, “It is not acceptable for a child or teenager to have a bladed weapon on the street or at school,” advocating for stricter controls and a zero-tolerance policy regarding weapons. Macron’s dedication to children’s welfare appears evident, as he seeks to balance freedom of expression in the digital age with the need for safeguarding young individuals from potential dangers of social media. He expressed urgency in implementing these measures, revealing a commitment to taking decisive action if European unity does not materialize in the ongoing discussions regarding online regulations for teenagers. This urgency has been reinforced by rising public concern over teenage access to social media and its connection to harmful behaviors. In light of these developments, it is crucial to monitor how these proposed actions unfold in France and across Europe, particularly as many nations are grappling with similar issues of regulating minors' online activities. Macron's call for a unified European approach reflects a shared concern among EU nations regarding the mental health and safety of young internet users. The outcome of these discussions and policies will likely have lasting implications on the broader social landscape and how nations choose to govern children's access to technology.