In view of the dangerous effects of social media on children’s health, the dangers of cyberbullying and getting involved in wrongdoings, there is a demand all over the world to keep children away from them. Australia has even banned children under 16 years of age from using social media.
Due to children’s safety, mental health and online threats, demands for a ban or strict restriction on social media are rising across the world.
New Delhi. A comment made by French President Emmanuel Macron regarding social media at the India AI Summit has fueled the discussion about banning platforms like Instagram and Facebook for children in India too. At the AI Summit, Emmanuel Macron said that France is preparing to ban social media on children below 15 years of age and he expects the same from India. Australia is the first country in the world to impose a complete ban on social media for children under 16 years of age. Many countries including France, Germany can now follow the footsteps of Australia.
Due to children’s safety, mental health and online threats, demands for a ban or strict restriction on social media are rising across the world. Addictive algorithms of social media are increasing the risks of stress, lack of sleep, difficulty concentrating, low self-esteem, body image problems and suicide in children. In view of all these dangers, Australia has banned children under 16 years of age from creating or maintaining accounts on major social media platforms from December 10, 2025.
Which platforms are banned for children?
Australia’s e-Safety Commissioner has released a list of social media platforms on which creating accounts for children under 16 years of age is completely prohibited. Children’s accounts have been deactivated or locked from the platforms included in the list. The platforms that have been banned include-
- tiktok
- youtube
- snapchat
- X (formerly Twitter)
- threads
- twitch
- kick
Some apps have not been banned. These are considered messaging or gaming focused. Those which children can use are-
- whatsapp,
- facebook messenger,
- youtube kids,
- discord,
- roblox
- Pinterest.
This country is also preparing for ban
France is about to enact a law to ban social media for children under 15 years of age. Norway has proposed to set the age limit for children at 15 years. Denmark is also considering similar restrictions for children under 15. ‘Minor Mode’ is already implemented in China, where age-appropriate screen time and content are blocked at the app level.
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