Countries implementing social media bans for children worldwide
Original: These are the countries moving to ban social media for children
Why This Matters
Global regulatory trend could reshape social media industry operations and user verification requirements
Multiple countries are enacting legislation to restrict social media access for minors. Australia leads with a ban for under-16s affecting major platforms, with fines up to $34.4 million. Austria plans restrictions for under-14s by June, while Denmark targets under-15s with parliamentary support secured.
Australia became the first country to ban social media for children under 16 in December 2025, covering Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Threads, TikTok, X, YouTube, Reddit, Twitch, and Kick. Companies face penalties up to $49.5 million AUD ($34.4 million USD) for non-compliance and must use multiple age verification methods. Austria announced plans to ban social media for children up to 14, with draft legislation expected by June. Denmark secured parliamentary support for banning platforms for under-15s, with the government announcing coalition and opposition party backing in November 2025. These measures aim to address cyberbullying, addiction, mental health issues, and predator exposure, though critics like Amnesty Tech argue the bans are ineffective and ignore younger generation realities.