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Australia's bold policy to restrict social networking access for individuals under sixteen is sparking debate around the globe. Politicians, child protection groups, and guardians are observing with great interest to see if this tactic will become a template for countries abroad.

The European Movement

Across Europe, a rising number of countries are exploring parallel measures.

• Denmark plans a restriction on social media for youth below 15, with the leader arguing that smartphones and networks are "robbing our youngsters' childhood". A law could be passed next year.
• Norway is set to implement a minimum age limit of 15, highlighting the need to safeguard the young from the "influence of the recommendation systems".
• Ireland is introducing a online verification tool to authenticate the age and identity of social media account holders. Officials have indicated that an Australia-style ban could be "an tools on the table".
• In Spain, the prime minister has called on lawmakers to enact a law raising the legal age for using social media to 16.
• In France, the head of state has proposed a ban for under-15s, and a legislative committee has endorsed a related step, alongside an overnight "internet blackout" for adolescents.
• The government in The Netherlands has advised parents to block their children from social media until 15.

For the broader EU, the EU parliament has passed a non-binding motion supporting a ban for minors without parental consent is given. While it highlights of the "habit-forming" design of these services, the move does not establish enforceable legislation.

"A clear age barrier is a good first step," commented one MEP supporting the initiative.

The UK: A Watchful Approach

Across Britain, the administration has kept open a possible ban, stating that "no measure is being dismissed" but maintaining any action must be "grounded in strong research".

Earlier, support gathered behind a proposal to impose limits on social media use by under-16s, but it was ultimately watered down. However, the administration pledged to investigate the topic.

Charities have expressed warnings. One foundation established by the relatives of a young person who took her own life after being exposed to dangerous platform posts contends that a strict age ban may not improve online safety and could create a "cliff edge" of exposure when users reach the legal age.

"Australia's ban is a response to the refusal of the Silicon Valley to design platforms and apps that are safe and age appropriate for children," said a influential child protection advocate.

America: A State-by-State Approach

Across America, regulation is primarily unfolding at the local government level amid federal gridlock.

• Utah mandates adult approval for minors to use social media and limits late-night use.
• Florida has signed a bill prohibiting those below 14 from joining social media, though it is entangled in court battles.
• Virginia has passed a regulation capping minors to 60 minutes of social media access per day, with any further time requiring parental permission.
• Georgia, The state of Tennessee, and Louisiana have similarly passed bills requiring adult authorization for teenagers to open social media profiles.

Even with widespread concern and suggestions from certain individuals to copy Australia's path, a nationwide ban is right now seen as unlikely.

Global Outlook

Beyond Europe and the US, further states are similarly considering moves.

• Malaysia plans to prohibit social media for those under sixteen starting from next year.
• Brazil has increased the access age for Instagram to 16.

But, global bodies take a more measured tone. A major UN agency has cautioned that blanket prohibitions have downsides and "might have unintended consequences". The body points out that online platforms can be a "lifeline" for marginalized young people and that regulation should not be a "excuse" for platform operators to prioritize safety.

As this global debate continues, the policies of Australia and its followers demonstrate that policymakers around the world are less and less content to delay for the industry to act voluntarily.