France moves to ban social media for under-15s

France is moving to restrict social media access for minors, with a new bill banning its use for individuals under 15 years old passing a compromise commission in parliament. The legislation is slated to be implemented before the start of the upcoming academic year.

The proposed law places a significant obligation on social media platforms to establish robust age verification systems. This measure is intended to prevent underage users from accessing services that could be detrimental to their development. Additionally, the bill includes provisions to ban the use of smartphones in high schools, further aiming to curb digital distractions during school hours.

Supporters of the bill argue that these measures are crucial for protecting the well-being of young people in an increasingly digital world. Critics, however, have raised concerns about the feasibility of age verification and the potential impact on personal freedoms. The debate highlights the growing global concern over the effects of social media on adolescent mental health and development.