French teen social media ban struck down by top constitutional authority

France's Constitutional Council has overturned a ban that would have restricted social media access for children under 15, dealing a significant blow to legislation championed by President Emmanuel Macron. The council declared that Article 1 of the law constituted an "infringement that is neither appropriate, necessary, nor proportionate" to the freedom of expression and communication for minors.

“

constitutes an infringement that is neither appropriate, necessary, nor proportionate

The ruling also raised concerns about the privacy implications of implementing an age-verification system for all users. The law, slated to take effect on September 1, aimed to shield younger individuals from the documented negative effects of platforms like TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram, including anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, and online harassment.

Despite the setback, the French presidency affirmed Macron's determination to address online child safety. Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu has been tasked with developing a new, legally sound draft of the legislation. This new proposal must consider both the Constitutional Council's decision and the existing European regulatory framework. Macron views enhancing online child safety as a key priority for the latter years of his presidency.

“

We take note of it and respect this decision, which applies to everyone.

Former Prime Minister Gabriel Attal expressed disappointment with the ruling but respected the decision, vowing to continue the fight against the perceived "deadly poison for our children." The Constitutional Council's decision did not affect a separate measure prohibiting mobile phone use in high schools, which is set to begin on September 1. French elementary and middle school students are already barred from using phones during school hours.

“

a deadly poison for our children.