‘Major Step’: French MPs Vote in Favor of Bill to Ban Social Media for Under-15s
France’s National Assembly has taken a decisive action by voting in support of a bill that seeks to restrict social media access for individuals under the age of 15, a move backed by President Emmanuel Macron. This proposal reflects a broader trend aimed at safeguarding the mental health of children amidst growing concerns over the impact of social media.
Key Details of the Bill
– Voting Outcome: Lawmakers in the lower house cast their votes on Monday, with the bill passing 116-23.
– Next Steps: The bill now advances to the Senate for further consideration. If approved, it will prohibit young teenagers from using platforms like Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok.
– Global Context: This legislation aligns with international efforts to restrict social network access for minors, following a similar law enacted in Australia late last year.
President Macron’s Support
Following the passage of the bill, Macron described it as a major step, urging for swift action to implement the ban by the upcoming school year, which begins on September 1 in France. He emphasized the importance of protecting children’s mental well-being, stating, Our children’s brains are not for sale.
Insights from Lawmakers
Laure Miller, an MP and supporter of the bill, reiterated the necessity for this legislation, asserting that social networks are not harmless. She expressed concern about the promises made by these platforms—claiming to connect people, provide information, and entertain—while in reality, they may have done the opposite.
Provisions of the Bill
– A state media regulator will compile a list of social media networks considered harmful, which will be banned for users under 15.
– A secondary list of potentially less harmful sites will be available only with direct parental consent.
– A new clause will also prohibit mobile phone usage within senior schools (lycées), building on an existing ban in junior and middle schools.
Age Verification Challenges
If the legislation is enacted, France will need to establish a robust mechanism for age verification. Currently, a system is in place requiring individuals over 18 to verify their age for accessing online pornography. Several European nations, including Denmark, Greece, Spain, and Ireland, are contemplating similar measures following Australia’s lead.
Legislative Process and Challenges
Earlier this month, the UK government initiated discussions about a potential social media ban for those under 16. The proposed French legislation originated from a text drafted by Miller, who led a parliamentary inquiry into the psychological effects of platforms like TikTok.
Despite political tensions and a divided parliament following the 2024 elections, the government has unified behind Miller’s bill. The timeline to finalize the law involves a fast-track procedure to avoid delays caused by legislative backlogs.
Conclusion
As France moves toward a potential ban on social media for under-15s, the implications of this decision resonate across Europe. Increased attention to the mental health of children highlights the urgent need to reassess the role of social networks in their lives. With this legislative action, France aims to set a precedent for protecting young users from the potential harms of social media, reflecting a growing commitment to children’s welfare in the digital age.