EU Plans Social Media Ban for Children Under 13

The European Union plans to ban children under 13 from using social media platforms under a phased regulatory approach proposed by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

Staged Age Restrictions and Parental Controls Under the Children’s Act

According to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen during her annual State of the Union address in Strasbourg, the new regulatory framework establishes distinct protection levels according to age categories. Minors aged 13 to 15 will be permitted to access restricted micro-accounts featuring limited platform functionality, mandatory parental supervision, and a daily usage cap of one hour. Technology companies operating within the bloc must also implement safety designs for users between 15 and 18 years old. The European Commission officially submits the Children’s Act to lawmakers.

Tech Industry Accountability and Compliance Mandates

Under the terms outlined by the European Commission, social media corporations face obligations to prove the safety of their digital environments for children. The proposed rules compel platform operators to demonstrate compliance with safety-by-design architecture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum age for unrestricted social media access under the proposed EU plan?

The proposed framework bans children under 13 from using social media, while users aged 13 to 15 face limitations including parental supervision and a one-hour daily time cap.

When will the European Commission present the new regulations?

According to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, the formal “Children’s Act” is scheduled for official presentation on Thursday.

What requirements will social media companies face?

Platforms must implement secure design features for users aged 15 to 18 and prove that their systems maintain safe environments for children.