Social media ban for kids?

Experts, parents and students weigh the pros and cons, write Jutamas Tadthiemrom and Apinya Wipatayotin

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Australia notched up a world first last December when it imposed a nationwide social media ban on users under 16 through the Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Bill. The law prohibits them from holding accounts on major platforms including TikTok, X, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Snapchat and Threads.

While the move is framed as a response to growing concerns over digital addiction among young people, the legislation is also intended to curb the negative effects of platform design features that encourage prolonged screen time and expose minors to content that may harm their health and well-being.

The Ipsos Education Monitor 2025 found 87% of respondents in Thailand believe children under 14 should not be allowed to use social media. This represents the highest level of support among the 30 countries surveyed globally. Despite this, loopholes remain, and debates continue worldwide over the most effective and realistic solutions.

GLOBAL MOMENTUM

Critics have raised concerns over enforcement, including the use of VPN-enabled platforms for streaming services or online games, the risks associated with large-scale age-verification data collection, and potential data protection breaches. Others argue that any ban should also extend to dating websites and online gaming platforms, which can pose similar risks.

Several countries are moving in similar directions. Denmark plans to ban social media for under-15s, while Norway is considering a similar move.

France has recommended a ban for under-15s alongside a curfew for 15-18-year-olds, and Spain is proposing parental approval for users under 16.

In the UK, new 2025 online safety rules introduce heavy fines or possible jail terms for executives who fail to protect young users. By contrast, a 2024 attempt in Utah to restrict social media access for under-18s without parental consent was blocked by a federal judge.