After Australia’s under-16 social media ban, Here’s the growing list of countries considering similar moves

Australia is the first country to ban children under 16 from using social media, setting a trend that could soon influence nations across Europe and Southeast Asia. Governments around the world are taking a closer look at these platforms, worried about cyberbullying, addiction, mental health issues, and kids being exposed to online predators.

Why Governments Are Restricting Children’s Social Media Use

The surge in legislation targeting young users comes amid growing evidence of the harmful effects of social media. Lawmakers argue that platforms have not done enough to safeguard children, making legal intervention essential. The primary concerns driving these measures include:

• Cyberbullying and harassment
• Addictive behaviours linked to screen time
• Mental health deterioration, including anxiety and depression
• Exposure to online predators and inappropriate content

Australia Leads the Way with Under-16 Ban

Australia has officially banned children under 16 from using major social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Threads, TikTok, X, YouTube, Reddit, Twitch, and Kick.


The law excludes WhatsApp and YouTube Kids. Social media companies must implement multiple age verification methods or face fines of up to AUD 49.5 million (approx. £24.5 million).

Denmark Prepares Ban for Under-15s

Denmark is expected to follow suit by mid-2026, introducing restrictions for children under 15. The government has secured cross-party support and is developing a “digital evidence” app to aid age verification.

France Advances Social Media Restrictions

French lawmakers passed a bill in January banning children under 15 from social media, with President Emmanuel Macron backing the measure to reduce excessive screen time. The legislation still requires Senate approval before a final vote.

Germany Considers Under-16 Ban

In Germany, Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s bloc has proposed banning children under 16 from social media. However, coalition partners remain cautious about implementing a full ban, leaving the proposal under discussion.

Greece Close to Announcement

Reports indicate Greece is preparing to announce restrictions for children under 15, though no formal legislation has been introduced as of February 2026.

Southeast Asia Moves Towards Regulation

Indonesia: Plans to restrict under-16s from platforms including YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Bigo Live, and Roblox.

Malaysia: Implementation expected within 2026, targeting children under 16.

Slovenia Drafts Legislation

Slovenia is preparing rules to ban children under 15 from social media, focusing on platforms such as TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram.

Spain and the UK Consider Restrictions

Spain: The government plans to ban under-16s, pending parliamentary approval.

United Kingdom: The UK is consulting parents, young people, and civil society about a potential under-16 ban and may require platforms to limit features designed to encourage compulsive use.

The Global Trend

The push to protect children online is gaining momentum, with multiple countries looking to follow Australia’s lead. As more governments introduce laws, age verification and platform accountability are likely to become standard practices worldwide.

Inputs from TOI