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The Australian controversial policy to prohibit social platforms access for those under 16 is creating waves around the globe. Lawmakers, safety advocates, and parents are monitoring with great interest to see if this strategy will set a precedent for the rest of the world.

Across Europe Momentum

Throughout Europe, a growing number of countries are exploring parallel bans.

• The Danish government plans a ban on social media for under-15s, with the leader declaring that phones and platforms are "stealing our kids' childhood". The policy is expected to be passed in the coming year.
• Norway is set to introduce a access barrier of 15, pointing to the need to shield young people from the "manipulative force of the algorithms".
• Ireland is developing a digital wallet to verify the identity and age of social media users. Officials have stated that an Australia-style ban could be "a potential measures under consideration".
• In Spain, the prime minister has called on the legislature to pass a bill increasing the minimum age for accessing social media to 16.
• In France, the leader has floated the idea of a ban for those under fifteen, and a government panel has suggested a related step, including an overnight "internet blackout" for 15- to 18-year-olds.
• The administration in The Dutch government has recommended parents to restrict their kids from social media until 15.

Across the European Union, the bloc's legislature has passed a non-binding statement demanding a ban for under-16s without a parent decides otherwise is provided. Even though it highlights of the "compulsive" quality of these services, the resolution does not enact mandatory rules.

"A strong age barrier is a useful starting point," stated the MEP supporting the resolution.

The United Kingdom: A Watchful Approach

In the UK, the government has kept open a future ban, emphasizing that "nothing is off the table" but insisting any action must be "supported by conclusive research".

Last year, support gathered behind a proposal to introduce restrictions on social media use by teenagers, but it was ultimately weakened. However, the government vowed to further research the matter.

Campaign organizations have expressed concerns. One foundation established by the family of a young person who took her own life after being exposed to harmful online content argues that a blanket age ban might not improve online safety and could create a "dangerous transition" of exposure when teens reach the legal age.

"Australia's ban is a reaction to the failure of the Silicon Valley to build tools that are safe and suitable for minors," said a influential peer.

The US: A Fragmented Picture

Stateside, legislation is mostly happening at the regional government level amid country-wide gridlock.

• Utah mandates adult approval for under-18s to use social media and restricts nighttime use.
• The state of Florida has enacted a bill banning those below 14 from creating accounts on social media, though it is entangled in legal challenges.
• The state of Virginia has enacted a law restricting minors to one hour of social media time per day, with extra use dependent on a guardian's okay.
• Georgia, The state of Tennessee, and Louisiana have likewise introduced bills requiring parental consent for minors to set up social media presences.

Despite bipartisan support and suggestions from some politicians to follow Australia's example, a nationwide ban is right now seen as improbable.

Global Views

Apart from the West, other countries are likewise exploring options.

• The Malaysian government aims to restrict social media for those under sixteen effective next year.
• The Brazilian authorities has lifted the minimum age for Instagram to 16.

Yet, international organizations take a more measured tone. A major UN agency has advised that blanket prohibitions carry risks and "might prove counterproductive". The body highlights that the internet can be a "lifeline" for marginalized young people and that regulation should not be a "substitute" for social media firms to invest in child safeguards.

Even as this worldwide discussion continues, the steps of Australia and several other countries demonstrate that states around the world are no longer prepared to wait for the industry to act voluntarily.