Majority of EU countries in favor of social media ban for children
The EU is facing a new, far-reaching, and controversial step to protect children in the digital space. Led by the Danish EU Presidency, a large majority of member states signaled their support on Friday for the introduction of a “digital age of consent” at the EU level. The aim is to restrict minors' access to social media platforms and certain apps. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has proposed an age limit of 15.
Creating a safe online world for minors
At an informal Council meeting in Horsens on the east coast of Jutland, the ministers and state secretaries present signed a declaration on “Creating a safe online world for minors.” Almost all EU countries signed the paper, as did Norway and Iceland. Only two member states – Estonia and Belgium – refused to sign.
Estonia is committed to digital education
“In the offline world, age verification is standard practice for age-restricted goods and services,” the ministers emphasize. “It is therefore reasonable to expect similar safeguards online, where the risks – especially for minors – are significant and well documented.” Without “proper and trustworthy age verification,” it is difficult to prevent “social media from targeting minors with content and features designed for adults.”
Belgium and the Netherlands with reservations
Belgium refused to sign because the Flanders region vetoed it, according to Minister for Administrative Modernization Vanessa Matz. However, the EU member's presence at the meeting demonstrated the country's determination to work toward a safer internet.
The Netherlands also expressed reservations. Minister for Digitalization Eddie described age verification systems (AVS) as an “intrusive” measure, the use of which must always be proportionate. Age verification is more justifiable for products with proven harm to children and legal age restrictions, such as alcohol, tobacco, or online gambling.