EU explores tightening rules on minors’ use of social media

The European Parliament is moving toward imposing stricter restrictions on the use of social media platforms and artificial intelligence applications by younger age groups, after approving a non-binding report calling for a ban on unrestricted access to these services for individuals under 16 within EU countries.

During a plenary session held in Strasbourg, eastern France, a majority of lawmakers endorsed a recommendation to set a unified minimum age allowing access to social media platforms, video-sharing services, and AI-based messaging apps starting at 16. Those aged between 13 and 16 would be allowed access only with parental consent.

The report also stresses the need to ban mechanisms that drive minors toward digital addiction, including the pull-to-refresh feature used to update feeds, as well as the reward systems adopted by some platforms.

Lawmakers further recommended blocking websites that do not comply with EU regulations, as part of broader efforts to strengthen the protection of children and adolescents from the risks associated with uncontrolled technology use.

A committee of experts is expected to submit its detailed recommendations to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen — who supports the proposal — before the end of the current year.