EU Considers Australia's Social Media Age Policy as Model for Europe
The EU Commission is considering Australia's social media age policy as a model for Europe. President Ursula von der Leyen has proposed an age limit, sparking debate among German politicians and parents' concerns about children's online safety.
Von der Leyen compared potential social media guidelines to those for tobacco and alcohol, suggesting a similar age restriction approach. She proposed that children should only be allowed to use platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X from the age of 16, mirroring Australia's policy.
The EU Commission is working on technical requirements for age restrictions and developing a verification app for youth protection. The long-term goal is to integrate reliable age verification systems into the digital EU identity (eID), planned to be available from late 2026.
Parents' worries about children's unrestricted access to social media, particularly regarding exploitative algorithms, have fueled this debate. A YouGov survey found that more than 70% of people in Germany support a minimum age for access to these platforms. Von der Leyen understands these concerns and prioritizes children's online safety over corporate profits.
An expert group will be established by the end of the year to advise on the best course of action for Europe regarding social media age limits. The group will help determine the most effective way to protect children online.
The EU Commission's consideration of Australia's social media age policy has sparked a conversation about online safety for children. With parental concerns and public support in mind, the EU Commission President has proposed an age limit. The establishment of an expert group will help shape Europe's approach to social media age restrictions, with the aim of protecting children from potential harms.
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