France Bans Social Media for Minors Under 15, First European Country

France has become the first European country to ban social media for minors under 15, following the final adoption of a bill by the French Parliament. The law requires social media platforms to verify users' ages and obtain parental consent for minors under 15. President Emmanuel Macron called the legislation 'a major step forward' for child protection. The law also mandates that platforms must delete accounts of underage users who do not have parental permission. This move is part of a broader European push to regulate digital spaces and protect children online, with similar measures under consideration in other EU member states.

Global Impact

Politically, France's move could accelerate similar legislation in other EU countries and influence the European Commission's ongoing Digital Services Act enforcement. Socially, it may reduce online harassment and exposure to harmful content for minors, but also raises questions about freedom of expression and digital rights.