France Becomes First EU Nation To Ban Social Media For Children Under 15

The French Parliament, with support from both chambers, has finalized legislation aimed at curbing digital dependency and protecting minors from online risks. Under the new rules, social media platforms will be legally required to implement age verification systems to prevent children under 15 from creating or maintaining accounts.

In addition to the social media restrictions, the law mandates a complete ban on the use of mobile phones in high schools. This builds upon previous existing regulations that had already limited phone usage in primary and middle schools across the country.

Proponents of the law argue that the measure is necessary to address growing concerns regarding mental health, cyberbullying, and educational focus. The French government expects the new regulations to be fully operational and enforced by September. Source: French Parliament.