Children and youth

EU Parliament Backs Youth Social Media Restrictions

Would changes protect children from digital exploitation, or violate youth rights?

Published NOV 27 2025

EU Parliament Backs Youth Social Media Restrictions

Story

Above: A 12-year-old boy looks at a smartphone screen on March 16, 2023 in Bath, England. Image credit: Matt Cardy/Getty Images

The Facts

The European Parliament approved a resolution on Wednesday calling for the introduction of a minimum age of 16 to access social media platforms. The proposal was passed by 483 votes in favor, with 92 against and 86 abstentions.
Europarl
The resolution suggests children aged 13 to 16 could still access social media platforms with explicit parental permission, while a digital age limit of 13 be introduced below which no minors could access social media.
Europarl
Research cited by lawmakers claims that one in four minors displays problematic smartphone use comparable to addiction, with 78% of 13 to 17 year olds checking devices at least hourly, according to parliamentary data.
Eunews
EuroNews
The resolution also calls for banning addictive design features, including infinite scrolling, autoplay videos and reward systems based on screen time, while demanding stricter control of targeted advertising aimed at minors.
Portugal Resident
Guardian
Commission President Ursula von der Leyen specifically cited that Australia's social media ban for under-16s was being observed by Europe. Members of the European Parliament also backed the development of an EU age-verification app and a digital identity wallet.
EuroNews
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The non-binding resolution brokered by Denmark is reportedly a compromise that avoids mandatory detection orders for encrypted messaging services, though platforms will be obligated to track content.
Dw.Com
European Conservative

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The Spin

Narrative A

Social media platforms deliberately exploit children with addictive algorithms designed to maximize screen time and profits. These tech giants operate with zero accountability while children suffer documented harms including anxiety, sleep problems and declining well-being. Europe must unite to protect kids from digital exploitation with the introduction of age limits, as has already been done in Australia.

Le Monde

EUobserver

Narrative B

Age restrictions on social media will strip young people of privacy and an outlet of expression, all while letting platforms off the hook for making their products safer. Bans are unenforceable since teens will easily circumvent restrictions, leaving them without protections. Media literacy education respects youth agency and addresses real harms better than patronizing prohibitions.