France becomes first EU country to ban social media for children under 15

France becomes first EU country to ban social media for children under 15

France has become the first European Union country to implement a ban on social media access for children under 15, following parliamentary approval of legislation that restricts digital platforms for minors. The measure, passed by both chambers of parliament, is a notable shift in how governments address concerns over the impact of online content on youth, with the law set to take effect in September for new accounts and January 2027 for existing ones.

The bill, championed by President Emmanuel Macron, received backing from lawmakers in the Senate and National Assembly, with votes of 243–2 and 279–81 respectively. Digital Affairs Minister Anne Le Henanff emphasized the legislation as a step toward establishing a “digital age of majority” to protect children online. The law also includes a separate provision banning mobile phones in high schools, aligning with Macron’s broader push to limit digital distractions for students.

Under the new rules, children under 15 will be prohibited from creating new social media accounts starting September 1. Existing accounts will face restrictions from January 2027, with platforms required to implement age verification systems approved by France’s privacy regulator. Social media companies, which have generally opposed blanket bans, have indicated compliance with the law, though they highlight existing safeguards for younger users.

The legislation follows growing public and political pressure over the effects of social media on adolescent mental health. A French health watchdog reported that 90% of children aged 12–17 use smartphones daily, with 58% accessing social networks. The agency linked prolonged exposure to platforms like TikTok and Instagram to reduced self-esteem, increased risk of self-harm, and other harmful behaviors. Families in France have also filed lawsuits against TikTok, alleging that harmful content contributed to teenage suicides.

Despite broad support, the bill faced criticism from left-wing lawmakers and legal experts. Ines Legendre of the online protection group e-Enfance noted challenges in enforcing the law, including identifying and suspending existing accounts. Critics also raised concerns about privacy and the feasibility of age verification, while the Constitutional Council will review the legislation’s compliance with French law, potentially delaying its implementation.

The European Commission has been engaged in parallel discussions on social media regulation, with the Digital Services Act setting strict safety standards across the bloc. France’s approach, which includes a blanket ban rather than a tiered system, has drawn attention as other EU nations consider similar measures. The European Commission’s age verification app, currently tested in member states, may play a role in enforcing the new rules.

Macron’s administration framed the law as a defining achievement of his final term, with the president stating that “France is leading the way in Europe” to safeguard children. The measure aligns with global trends, as countries like Australia have already imposed restrictions on social media for under-16s. However, the French law’s strict timeline and scope have sparked debates over its practicality and long-term impact on digital freedoms.

Exceptions to the ban include online encyclopedias, educational platforms, and scientific directories, reflecting efforts to balance restrictions with access to information. The legislation’s passage underscores the intensifying scrutiny of tech giants and the growing demand for regulatory action to mitigate the risks of online environments for minors.