Parents and leaders worldwide are increasingly worried about how social media affects young minds. Now, Denmark is taking a bold step to shield its children from these online pressures. The country plans a new law that will stop children under 15 from using social media. This move aims to protect their mental health and behavior. It could become Europe’s toughest rule on digital safety for kids.
Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen shared this plan during the opening of Parliament’s autumn session. She spoke plainly, stating that smartphones and social media are “stealing our children’s childhood.” The Prime Minister pointed out a troubling trend. About 60% of Danish boys, aged 11 to 19, now stay home more often. They choose not to spend time with friends. This shows a big shift in society, which she believes comes from young people being too hooked on technology and social media.
The details of this draft law are still being worked out. It’s not yet clear which specific platforms will be blocked by the new rules. Also, how the ban will be put into practice remains undefined. However, there’s a good chance parents might be able to give permission for their children to use social media from age 13.
Denmark isn’t alone in this push to protect children online. Australia announced a similar ban recently. By late 2024, Australian children under 16 will be restricted from using social media. This includes popular sites like Facebook, Snapchat, TikTok, and YouTube. Greece, another European nation, also presented an idea to the European Union. They call it the “Age of Digital Adulthood.” This idea would stop children from accessing social media unless they have parental consent first.
These actions show a growing global concern. Countries are grappling with the digital world’s deep impact on young people. Many leaders want to ensure kids grow up healthy. They hope to protect them from the downsides of constant online connection.
Source: Channel News Asia