Denmark plans to ban social media access for children under 15, following Australia’s move to restrict use for those under 16, in a bid to protect young people from online risks.
The Danish government said last month that it reached an agreement with three coalition and two opposition parties in parliament on the measure, which could become law by mid-2026. Parents may have limited rights to allow children aged 13 and above to use social media, though the ministry has not fully outlined the enforcement details.
Many platforms already bar users under 13, and EU rules require safeguards for minors. Yet authorities say restrictions have limited impact: about 98% of Danish children under 13 already have social media profiles, including nearly half under 10.
Minister for Digital Affairs Caroline Stage, announcing the plan, said a consultation and multiple parliamentary readings are still needed. “For too long, social media platforms have had free play in children’s lives,” she said. “In the digital world, we don’t have bouncers, and we need that.”
The Danish proposal comes amid mixed reactions. Some teenagers fear losing contact with online friends. Fifteen-year-old Ronja Zander said she relies on social media to stay in touch with friends she only knows online. Others, like 14-year-old Chloé Courage Fjelstrup-Matthisen, highlighted exposure to graphic content and cyberbullying.
Parents largely support the move. Line Pedersen from Nykøbing said children were given smartphones and social media too early, leaving them unsure of what is normal online.
The government plans to use a new “digital evidence” app, expected next spring, displaying age certificates to ensure compliance with age limits. Stage emphasized that political action is needed because social media companies often fail to enforce their own rules.
Experts caution that age restrictions may not fully protect children and could affect their democratic rights. Anne Mette Thorhauge, associate professor at the University of Copenhagen, said social media is a key way for young people to connect with society, similar to broadcast media for previous generations.
The EU Digital Services Act requires platforms to implement parental controls and age verification, but enforcement remains challenging across member states.
Denmark joins several countries following Australia’s lead. Malaysia plans to bar social media for users under 16 from next year, while Norway is considering similar restrictions. China already limits children’s online gaming and smartphone usage.
Source: AP/UNB
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