On Thursday, November 28th, 2024, Australia’s government officially passed a law banning children under sixteen from using social media apps. This ban applies to TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Reddit, X, and additional platforms. Child rights activists believe this will stifle the creativity of Australia’s youth, while parent groups believe the restrictions are necessary to protect children.
When put into effect in late 2025, the ban platforms will be liable for fines of up to $50 million AUD, which is equivalent to roughly $33 million United States dollars. These fines would be imposed if the companies failed to impose efficient age restrictions to prevent children under sixteen from accessing the platforms.
According to multiple studies, children who actively use social media are more likely to experience depression and anxiety in their early adulthood. Social media has many recognizable effects on children. It can create insecurity, expose minors to dangerous or inappropriate content, and heighten bullying.
However, banning children from using social media could also create unintended side effects. Some believe it violates freedom of speech, prevents children from engaging with topics they are passionate about, and takes authority away from parental figures. Social media companies and various adults believe that parents should be in control of their children’s social media activity, and that the government imposing this legislation could create a negative cultural spiral. Parents in Britain and across Europe are taking a different approach, using WhatsApp or Telegram to organize agreements, promising not to buy smartphones for their children under 12.
Do you think social media restrictions are a progressive step forward, or a harmful step backwards?
How would you feel if America was next?
