Australia has recently taken a big step by banning social media for children under 16 years of age, which is the first step of its kind in the world. Now, Denmark is following suit, and preparing to limit young children’s online presence. The government of the country has clearly indicated that keeping children away from social media has become an important step.
Consent in the Danish Parliament
According to media reports, the Danish government announced last month that three coalition parties and two opposition parties had reached an agreement on a social media ban for children under 15 years of age. This move is considered to be the biggest digital ban in the European Union so far.
This law can be implemented by mid-2026. However, in some cases, parents may be given the option to give children over the age of 13 limited permission to use social media.
existing laws ineffective
Europe already has a number of rules in place that prevent children under 13 from creating social media accounts, but reports suggest that these laws have not been effective. In Denmark, approximately 98% of children are on at least one social media platform before the age of 13. Even almost half of children under 10 have their own online profiles.
Big statement of Digital Affairs Minister
Denmark’s digital affairs minister, Caroline Stege, said there were not enough controls in place over children’s online safety. He said, “Just as age is checked in a club or party, there should be a system to verify age in the digital world too.” The government is preparing to launch a new app called “Digital Evidence”, which could be available as soon as next spring. This app will show a digital certificate of the user’s age, which will ensure compliance with the rules.
Australia has already imposed heavy fines on companies
Under Australia’s new rules, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and other platforms will have to remove accounts of children under 16 years of age. If they fail to do so, they could face fines of up to $33 million.