More countries around the world are discussing or planning new rules to limit children’s access to social media, following Australia’s decision to ban social media accounts for children under 16. This issue is trending because governments in Europe and Asia are now openly debating whether similar rules are needed to protect kids online.
According to Reuters, officials in countries such as France, Germany and parts of the European Union have said they are closely watching Australia’s move and considering tougher rules for social media companies. The goal is to protect children from harmful content, online bullying, data misuse and addictive app designs.
Social media platforms use algorithms—a type of artificial intelligence—to decide what videos, posts or images people see next. Experts say these AI systems are designed to keep users online longer, which can be risky for children if not properly controlled. Because of this, governments are now questioning how much responsibility tech companies should have when it comes to young users.
Australia’s law, which began this month, makes platforms like Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat responsible for making sure children under 16 do not have accounts. Companies that fail to follow the rules could face huge fines. Other countries are now studying whether similar AI-powered age-checks or digital ID systems could work elsewhere.
Why this matters to kids and families
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AI shapes what we see online. Social media apps use artificial intelligence to suggest videos and posts, which can influence mood, behaviour and attention.
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Governments are stepping in. When technology grows faster than safety rules, laws are sometimes introduced to protect children.
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Online safety is becoming global. Decisions made in one country can affect how apps work everywhere.
Some technology companies say they support protecting children but argue that parents should decide, not governments. Child-safety groups, however, say that strong rules are needed because young brains are still developing and can be more easily affected by online pressure.
For kids, this news shows that technology isn’t just about gadgets and apps—it’s also about rules, responsibility and wellbeing. Schools and parents are being encouraged to talk openly with children about screen time, online behaviour and digital balance.
In short: After Australia banned social media for under-16s, other countries are now considering similar technology rules to protect children from online harm.
Learning takeaway: Artificial intelligence can be powerful and useful, but when it comes to kids, safety and balance matter just as much as innovation. 🌐🧠
