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Australia's controversial action to prohibit social platforms access for young people below 16 is sparking debate internationally. Lawmakers, campaigners, and families are observing closely to see if this strategy will set a precedent for countries abroad.

The European Momentum

Across Europe, a increasing number of states are exploring parallel bans.

• The Danish government plans a prohibition on social media for under-15s, with the prime minister arguing that mobile devices and platforms are "taking away our children's innocence". A law could be formalized soon.
• The Norwegian government is planning to enforce a access barrier of 15, highlighting the need to protect young people from the "influence of the recommendation systems".
• Ireland is developing a digital wallet to verify the user details of social media users. The media minister have stated that an similar ban could be "one of the options under consideration".
• In Spain, the prime minister has asked parliament to enact a bill lifting the legal age for using social media to 16.
• In France, the leader has threatened a ban for under-15s, and a government panel has suggested a related action, including an overnight "internet blackout" for adolescents.
• The administration in The Netherlands has recommended families to prevent their kids from social media until 15.

For the broader EU, the EU parliament has passed a symbolic statement calling for a ban for under-16s unless parental consent is granted. Even though it warns of the "addictive" design of these platforms, the move does not establish binding law.

"An effective age restriction is a useful first step," stated the European lawmaker supporting the measure.

Britain: An Evidence-Based Eye

Across Britain, the leadership has kept open a potential ban, stating that "nothing is discarded" but stressing any decision must be "supported by conclusive data".

Last year, interest gathered behind a proposal to enact restrictions on social media use by teenagers, but it was eventually modified. Instead, the administration committed to conduct more studies the issue.

Charities have voiced warnings. An organization founded by the loved ones of a girl who was lost after viewing dangerous online content argues that a simple age ban may not protect children and could create a "dangerous transition" of exposure when teens become eligible.

"The Australian ban is a reaction to the refusal of the tech sector to build tools that are appropriate and suitable for minors," commented a influential peer.

America: A Fragmented Landscape

Across America, regulation is largely unfolding at the state government level due to national inaction.

• Utah mandates adult approval for those under 18 to use social media and restricts overnight use.
• The state of Florida has enacted a law prohibiting under-14s from accessing social media, though it faces legal challenges.
• Virginia has passed a rule capping under-16s to a single hour of social media access per day, with extra time needing adult consent.
• Georgia, Tennessee, and Louisiana have similarly introduced bills demanding guardian approval for teenagers to create social media accounts.

Despite cross-party agreement and calls from various individuals to copy this example, a nationwide ban is right now seen as a distant prospect.

Global Views

Beyond Europe and the US, further states are also taking action.

• Malaysia intends to ban social media for teenagers effective next year.
• Brazil has increased the minimum age for one major platform to 16.

However, global bodies adopt a more cautious stance. A major UN agency has warned that social media bans pose dangers and "could backfire". The body notes that online platforms can be a "critical link" for isolated young people and that bans should not be a "excuse" for social media firms to improve safety.

While this global debate continues, the actions of the Australian government and others indicate that states internationally are no longer content to stand by for the industry to self-regulate.