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The nation's decisive action to restrict social platforms access for those under 16 is sparking debate around the globe. Politicians, safety advocates, and parents are observing intently to see if this strategy will become a template for the rest of the world.

The European Momentum

Throughout Europe, a growing chorus of states are exploring similar measures.

• The Danish government has stated a ban on social media for children under fifteen, with the leader stating that phones and apps are "robbing our children's childhood". The policy may be passed in the coming year.
• Norway is preparing to enforce a age restriction of 15, citing the need to safeguard children from the "manipulative force of the AI".
• Ireland is working on a digital ID system to verify the age and identity of social media users. Officials have indicated that an similar ban is "one of the measures under consideration".
• In Spain, the prime minister has called on parliament to approve a proposal increasing the legal age for joining social media to 16.
• In The French government, the head of state has floated the idea of a ban for children below 15, and a parliamentary commission has suggested a comparable step, including an overnight "internet blackout" for 15- to 18-year-olds.
• The government in The Netherlands has urged families to prevent their children from social media before 15.

For the broader EU, the European parliament has adopted a non-binding resolution demanding a ban for teenagers under 16 except if a parent decides otherwise is provided. Although it cautions of the "addictive" quality of these platforms, the step does not create mandatory rules.

"A clear age limit is a useful foundation," stated the MEP behind the resolution.

Britain: A Watchful Eye

For the United Kingdom, the leadership has remained open to a possible ban, emphasizing that "nothing is discarded" but insisting any policy must be "supported by robust evidence".

Previously, support grew behind a bill to enact controls on social media use by teenagers, but it was ultimately watered down. Nonetheless, the administration pledged to investigate the issue.

Advocacy groups have voiced warnings. A prominent charity founded by the loved ones of a young person who died after encountering disturbing social media material argues that a simple age ban could fail to improve online safety and could lead to a "sudden drop-off" of risk when young people become eligible.

"This ban is a response to the failure of the Silicon Valley to design platforms and apps that are safe and fit for young users," said a influential child protection advocate.

America: A Fragmented Picture

Across America, legislation is largely unfolding at the regional government level against a backdrop of country-wide stalemate.

• Utah mandates guardian permission for those under 18 to use social media and controls overnight use.
• The state of Florida has passed a law barring children under fourteen from creating accounts on social media, though it is subject to court battles.
• Virginia has passed a regulation capping minors to one hour of social media time per day, with additional use dependent on adult consent.
• Georgia, Tennessee, and The state of Louisiana have similarly enacted bills requiring guardian approval for teenagers to create social media presences.

Despite bipartisan support and proposals from various individuals to copy the Australian path, a federal ban is presently seen as a distant prospect.

Global Perspectives

Beyond Europe and the US, further nations are similarly exploring options.

• The Malaysian government plans to ban social media for under-16s starting from next year.
• Brazil has raised the access age for one major platform to 16.

Yet, world organizations take a more cautious tone. The UN children's agency has warned that social media bans pose dangers and "may even backfire". The organization notes that the internet can be a "critical link" for vulnerable youth and that government action should not be a "excuse" for tech companies to invest in safety.

Even as this global discussion evolves, the actions of this nation and others show that policymakers globally are less and less willing to delay for the industry to self-regulate.