France Plans Social Media Ban for Children Under 15
French President Emmanuel Macron has announced plans to prohibit access to social media platforms for children under the age of 15 within the next few months. The move aims to protect young users from the growing mental and physical health risks associated with social media use.
EU-Wide Push to Limit Children's Online Exposure
This initiative comes as part of a broader European effort to regulate children’s interaction with online platforms. Supported by France, Spain, and led by Greece, a proposal is underway to impose restrictions across the European Union to safeguard children’s wellbeing.
Macron emphasized the urgency of the measure, stating the country would proceed with the ban independently if the EU does not act swiftly. In an interview, he remarked, "We cannot wait."
Age Verification and Enforcement
The President highlighted that social media companies already possess the tools needed to verify users’ ages, implying enforcement could be immediate. On social media, Macron commented, "Platforms have the ability to verify age. Let’s do it."
Stricter Knife Sale Restrictions Following Tragic Incident
In a related development, France is set to ban the sale of knives to minors after a 14-year-old allegedly killed a school assistant with a knife during a search of their bag. President Macron announced significant penalties and financial sanctions for breaches of this new rule.
French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou confirmed that a ban on sales of knives to anyone under 15 will be enacted by decree within two weeks. The ban will cover all knives that can be used as weapons, and Bayrou also proposed trials of metal detectors in schools to enhance security measures.
Swift Government Response
The measures reflect a swift governmental response to rising concerns over youth safety both online and in schools. With evidence mounting around the detrimental effects of social media on youth mental health and the recent tragic incident involving a minor and a weapon, these policies aim to curb potential harm effectively.
These initiatives signal a firm commitment by France to prioritize the safety and wellbeing of its younger generations in both virtual and physical environments.
