France is moving forward with legislation to restrict social media access for children under 15, but internal disagreements and broader European regulatory hurdles mean implementation is likely to be delayed. The move reflects growing concern about the impact of social media on youth mental health and development, and a broader trend toward stricter online age verification policies across Europe and beyond.
Parliamentary Divisions Slow Progress
Lawmakers in the French Senate recently approved a version of the bill that differs significantly from the one passed by the National Assembly earlier this year. The Assembly’s proposal calls for a complete ban, requiring platforms to delete existing underage accounts and reject new users under 15. It also includes a controversial ban on mobile phones in high schools.
The Senate’s approach is more nuanced, categorizing platforms based on their potential harm to child development. Platforms deemed particularly risky would be fully restricted, while others could be accessed with parental consent. Educational platforms and encyclopedias would be excluded from stricter rules. This divergence means lawmakers must now reconcile the two versions, a process that could stall the law’s enactment.
Age Verification Remains a Key Challenge
Even with a unified French law, its practical application hinges on reliable age verification methods. Currently, there is no universally effective system, and the European Union is still developing standardized solutions. EU-wide age verification is not expected to be implemented until 2027, potentially further delaying enforcement in France.
France’s Stance and EU Momentum
France has long been vocal about the need to protect children from the negative effects of social media. President Macron has criticized the exploitation of young users by foreign platforms, accusing them of manipulating emotions for profit.
France’s previous attempt to enforce age restrictions in 2023 was blocked by the EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA). However, recent revisions to the DSA have given member states more autonomy to set their own age limits. Australia has already taken the lead, banning children under 16 from social media in December.
The European Parliament is also pushing for stronger regulations, proposing a non-binding resolution to set a minimum age of 16 for social media access across the EU, with parental consent allowed for 13- to 16-year-olds.
The ongoing debate highlights a growing international consensus that current social media practices pose significant risks to young people, but translating this concern into effective policy remains a complex challenge.
The path forward for France, and for Europe as a whole, will depend on bridging internal disagreements and developing practical, enforceable solutions for age verification. Until then, the protection of minors online will remain a fragmented and uncertain landscape.
