Countries Move to Restrict Facebook, Instagram for Children; India Enters Global Debate

Governments around the world are moving decisively to regulate children’s access to social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, citing growing evidence of harm to mental health, online safety risks, and addictive design practices. From sweeping bans to stricter age limits, a new wave of regulation is reshaping how states view the responsibilities of Big Tech toward young users.

India has now entered the global debate, with policymakers beginning consultations and closely tracking international developments to assess whether stronger safeguards are needed for children in the digital ecosystem.

Australia Sets a New Global Benchmark

Australia has emerged as a global trendsetter after passing landmark legislation in December 2024 that bans children under 16 from using social media platforms. Unlike earlier regulatory models, the Australian law places the burden of compliance squarely on technology companies, requiring them to deploy robust age-verification systems and actively prevent underage access.

Authorities said the decision followed mounting research linking excessive social media use among children and adolescents to anxiety, depression, sleep disruption, and self-harm. Since its adoption, the Australian framework has become a reference point for governments worldwide exploring similar measures.

France Acts as Europe Debates Age Thresholds

France has already enacted laws restricting social media access for children under 15, mandating parental consent and strengthening enforcement provisions. French lawmakers argued that voluntary safety tools offered by platforms had failed to protect minors from harmful content and addictive features.

Across the European Union, momentum is building. In November 2025, the European Parliament recommended setting 16 as the minimum age for social media use. Although non-binding, the recommendation has increased pressure on national governments to legislate.

Countries such as Denmark, Greece, Spain, and Ireland are now reviewing regulatory options, with legislators expressing concern that existing age limits — typically set at 13 by platforms — are widely ignored and easily circumvented.

UK Signals Tougher Action

In the United Kingdom, Prime Minister Keir Starmer has confirmed that his government is actively examining restrictions on children’s social media use. British officials have pointed to rising instances of cyberbullying, online exploitation, and youth mental health challenges as drivers behind the push for stricter controls.

While no legislation has yet been finalised, officials have indicated that protecting minors online is becoming a policy priority.

Malaysia Introduces Under-16 Ban

In Southeast Asia, Malaysia has announced a ban on social media access for users below 16 years of age. The move forms part of a broader effort to tighten online safety laws and reduce children’s exposure to harmful content and long-term psychological risks.

India Begins Early-Stage Consultations

India has not yet proposed a nationwide restriction, but the debate has gained traction. Goa has initiated consultations on potential age-based limits inspired by Australia’s model, with the state’s IT minister confirming on January 27 that options are being examined.

Officials emphasise that discussions are still at a preliminary stage, focused on balancing children’s safety with digital inclusion. However, global regulatory trends have prompted a reassessment of whether India’s current legal framework adequately protects minors online.

Social Media Platforms Face Mounting Scrutiny

Despite claiming to enforce a minimum age of 13, platforms owned by Meta and other tech companies continue to face criticism for weak age-verification systems. Regulators and child-rights advocates argue that self-declared ages and basic checks do little to prevent underage access.

Experts warn that algorithm-driven feeds, infinite scrolling, and engagement-optimised design amplify risks for children, reinforcing calls for stronger state intervention rather than voluntary compliance.

A Broader Shift in Global Digital Policy

The growing number of bans and restrictions signals a fundamental change in how governments view social media — no longer just communication tools, but powerful systems with deep social and psychological impacts.

As more countries move toward legislation or pilot regulations, pressure is increasing on technology companies to adapt their platforms and business models. Observers say the next phase will determine whether global standards emerge or whether companies face a patchwork of national rules.

With India now watching closely, the outcome of these international experiments may shape the country’s own approach to protecting children in an increasingly digital world.