European Parliament Backs Call for Social Media Ban for Under-16s
Move aims to curb addictive platform risks and support parental oversight
The European Parliament has called for a ban on social media use for children under 16, voting in favour of a resolution aimed at tackling the growing risks of digital addiction, online manipulation and mental health harms linked to major platforms.
MEPs said the proposal is intended to support parents and guardians as online environments become increasingly immersive and harder to regulate. The resolution urges EU member states to consider age-based restrictions, stronger identity verification tools, and mandatory safety-by-design rules for tech companies.
Lawmakers cited rising concerns over addictive design features, exposure to harmful content, data harvesting, and the influence of algorithms on young users. The resolution also calls for clearer transparency obligations for platforms that target minors and stricter advertising limitations.
Supporters argued the measures are necessary to protect developing brains, reduce screen dependency, and respond to studies linking excessive social media use with anxiety, depression and sleep disruption in teenagers. Critics, however, warned the move could raise privacy challenges and may be difficult to enforce without proper digital infrastructure.
The resolution is non-binding but signals growing momentum within the EU for tighter regulation of youth access to online platforms. It also aligns with broader European efforts under the Digital Services Act and upcoming child safety legislation.
