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Australia's bold action to prohibit social media access for individuals under sixteen is creating waves around the globe. Officials, safety advocates, and families are observing closely to see if this tactic will inspire imitation for countries abroad.

European Movement

Throughout Europe, a increasing number of countries are exploring similar bans.

• Denmark has announced a ban on social media for under-15s, with the leader declaring that phones and networks are "robbing our kids' childhood". Legislation may be passed soon.
• Norway is preparing to implement a age restriction of 15, highlighting the need to shield children from the "manipulative force of the algorithms".
• Ireland is introducing a digital ID system to verify the age and identity of social media participants. The media minister have indicated that an Australia-style ban could be "a potential measures under consideration".
• In Spain, the leader has urged parliament to enact a proposal lifting the legal age for accessing social media to 16.
• In France, the leader has proposed a ban for children below 15, and a parliamentary commission has suggested a related step, potentially involving an overnight "internet blackout" for adolescents.
• The administration in the Netherlands has recommended parents to prevent their children from social media up to the age of 15.

Across the European Union, the European parliament has adopted a symbolic resolution supporting a ban for teenagers under 16 except if parental consent is given. Even though it highlights of the "compulsive" nature of these platforms, the move does not enact mandatory rules.

"An effective age barrier is a good foundation," said a leading MEP behind the initiative.

The United Kingdom: A Watchful Stance

Across Britain, the administration has kept open a future ban, arguing that "nothing is discarded" but stressing any decision must be "grounded in conclusive evidence".

Previously, momentum built behind a proposal to introduce limits on social media use by minors, but it was in the end modified. Nonetheless, the administration committed to further research the issue.

Campaign organizations have voiced concerns. One foundation set up by the loved ones of a girl who took her own life after viewing disturbing social media material argues that a simple age ban might not improve online safety and could lead to a "dangerous transition" of harm when teens become eligible.

"Australia's ban is a reaction to the failure of the tech sector to design tools that are secure and fit for young users," said a influential peer.

The United States: A Fragmented Landscape

Across America, regulation is primarily unfolding at the local level due to country-wide gridlock.

• Utah mandates parental consent for minors to use social media and limits nighttime use.
• Florida has passed a measure banning under-14s from joining social media, though it is entangled in court battles.
• Virginia has enacted a law capping under-16s to one hour of social media time per day, with additional use requiring a guardian's okay.
• The state of Georgia, The state of Tennessee, and Louisiana have likewise passed laws requiring adult authorization for under-16s to open social media profiles.

Despite cross-party agreement and calls from various politicians to mimic this path, a nationwide ban is currently seen as a distant prospect.

International Perspectives

Apart from the West, additional countries are also exploring options.

• The Malaysian government aims to ban social media for those under sixteen beginning next year.
• Brazil has raised the required age for one major platform to 16.

Yet, world bodies strike a more measured tone. A major UN agency has advised that blanket prohibitions have downsides and "could have unintended consequences". The organization points out that social networks can be a "lifeline" for vulnerable children and that bans should not be a "substitute" for social media firms to improve safety.

Even as this worldwide discussion continues, the policies of this nation and its followers demonstrate that states around the world are less and less prepared to delay for platforms to act voluntarily.