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The nation's controversial policy to restrict social platforms access for those under 16 is creating waves around the globe. Politicians, child protection groups, and families are observing intently to see if this strategy will set a precedent for other nations.

Across Europe Trend

Across Europe, a growing number of states are exploring comparable bans.

• Denmark has announced a prohibition on social media for youth below 15, with the prime minister stating that mobile devices and platforms are "stealing our kids' innocence". Legislation is expected to be passed next year.
• Norway is planning to introduce a access barrier of 15, citing the need to protect young people from the "influence of the algorithms".
• Ireland is working on a online verification tool to verify the user details of social media account holders. Authorities have stated that an Australia-style ban is "a potential measures on the table".
• In Spain, the president has urged parliament to approve a proposal raising the legal age for joining social media to 16.
• In France, the leader has proposed a ban for under-15s, and a parliamentary commission has recommended a comparable step, alongside an overnight "digital curfew" for adolescents.
• The authorities in the Netherlands has advised guardians to block their children from social media up to the age of 15.

Across the European Union, the EU parliament has approved a non-binding resolution supporting a ban for minors except if guardian approval is granted. While it highlights of the "compulsive" design of these services, the step does not create enforceable legislation.

"An effective age limit is a good foundation," stated the parliamentarian driving the initiative.

Britain: A Watchful Stance

For the United Kingdom, the leadership has not ruled out a potential ban, stating that "no option is discarded" but stressing any decision must be "based on conclusive research".

Last year, interest built behind a legislative effort to impose restrictions on social media use by minors, but it was in the end modified. However, the administration vowed to conduct more studies the topic.

Charities have expressed apprehensions. One foundation established by the loved ones of a teenager who was lost after encountering dangerous platform posts contends that a blanket age ban might not protect children and could lead to a "dangerous transition" of harm when teens reach the legal age.

"Australia's ban is a reaction to the failure of the social media companies to build platforms and apps that are safe and suitable for minors," stated a influential peer.

America: A State-by-State Landscape

Across America, legislation is mostly occurring at the state government level due to country-wide stalemate.

• Utah mandates adult approval for those under 18 to use social media and limits overnight use.
• Florida has signed a bill barring under-14s from accessing social media, though it faces court battles.
• Virginia has passed a law capping minors to 60 minutes of social media time per day, with any further time dependent on adult consent.
• The state of Georgia, Tennessee, and Louisiana have also enacted laws demanding parental consent for minors to open social media profiles.

Despite widespread concern and suggestions from certain figures to follow Australia's example, a federal ban is right now seen as improbable.

International Outlook

Outside of Europe and the US, other states are likewise taking action.

• Malaysia intends to ban social media for those under sixteen beginning next year.
• Brazil has increased the access age for one major platform to 16.

Yet, international bodies take a more measured position. A major UN agency has warned that age-based restrictions carry risks and "may even backfire". The organization points out that online platforms can be a "critical link" for isolated children and that regulation should not be a "excuse" for social media firms to prioritize safety.

Even as this international discussion evolves, the policies of the Australian government and others demonstrate that governments internationally are increasingly prepared to stand by for platforms to make changes on their own.