Slovakia proposes banning social media for under-16s

The Slovak government has advanced a bill that would prohibit children under the age of 16 from using social networks. Officials stated the measure aims to combat addictive behaviors, social pressure, and the spread of radicalization among young people.

If passed by parliament, the legislation will forbid the creation of social media accounts for individuals younger than 16. It will also mandate age verification processes for users. Documents released on the government's website detail the proposal, which responds to the increasing role of online platforms in disseminating harmful content, including violent and extremist material.

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The proposal reacts to the growing importance of online technologies and social networks in spreading violent, extremist or otherwise harmful behaviour.

The government's accompanying report highlighted that the age limit of 16 was informed by research in psychology and neuroscience. International studies indicate that adolescence is a critical period for identity development, critical thinking, emotional regulation, and social relationship formation. During this phase, children and younger adolescents are considered more susceptible to algorithmic content, social pressures, manipulation, addictive behaviors, disinformation, and radicalizing narratives.

The bill proposes that social network providers implement age verification without accessing other personal data. These verification criteria would align with the European Union's digital services regulations. This move by Slovakia follows a trend in Europe, where several countries are introducing regulations on the minimum age for social media users or requiring parental consent.

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In this period, children and younger adolescents are more vulnerable to algorithmic content suggestions, social pressure, manipulative practices, formation of addictive behaviour, disinformation, radicalisation narratives and other forms of harmful content.