France has approved legislation to ban children under the age of 15 from accessing social media platforms, with President Emmanuel Macron announcing that the measure is expected to take effect from the new school year, subject to constitutional approval.

The move makes France the first European Union country to introduce such a nationwide age restriction on social media use. The legislation must now be reviewed by the Constitutional Council before it can come into force.

Macron Welcomes Parliament’s Decision

Announcing the development on X, President Macron thanked lawmakers for backing the legislation.

“I had committed to it, and now it’s been voted on: social media will be banned for those under 15 starting back-to-school. Thanks to the parliamentarians. It’s up to the Constitutional Council to rule, then on to action to make this measure concrete and protect our children online,” he wrote.

The French President said the measure is aimed at improving online safety for children and reducing their exposure to the risks associated with social media platforms.

France First in European Union

According to CNN, France is the first member of the European Union to introduce a nationwide ban on social media access for children below the age of 15.

The legislation reflects growing concerns among governments about the impact of excessive social media use on children’s mental health, wellbeing and online safety.

Global Push for Stricter Age Limits

France joins a growing number of countries introducing or considering tighter restrictions on children’s use of social media.

Earlier this year, the United Kingdom announced a ban on social media access for children under the age of 16. Then Prime Minister Keir Starmer said excessive social media use could trap children in “endless scrolling”, reducing time for play, sleep and family interactions while affecting their mental health.

In Japan, a government panel recommended stricter obligations for social media companies, including stronger age verification measures and restrictions on certain platform features to better protect minors, according to Kyodo News.

Australia implemented a nationwide ban on social media for children under 16 last year, while Spain and Denmark are also considering similar measures as governments worldwide seek to strengthen online safeguards for young users.

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