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The EU wants to restrict access to social media for children under 13

The EU wants to restrict access to social media for children under 13

13 July 2026, 19:16

The EU wants to restrict access to social media for children under 13 — Ban on social media for children in the EU

Європейський Союз планує обмежити доступ до соцмереж дітям до 13 років. Їм дозволятимуть використовувати соцмережі впродовж обмеженого періоду, а також під наглядом дорослих.

This was stated by the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, according to Reuters.

She noted that specific proposals regarding social media would be presented in September. Von der Leyen presented a report by two experts recommending a multi-tiered approach: first, they will analyse the types of platforms that are harmful to children. Following this, the EU will consider phased and gradual access for different age groups.

Widespread bans on social media for children around the world: what we know

In December 2025, Australia became the first country to ban social media for children under the age of 16. The country’s authorities explained their decision by stating that social media can be harmful to children — for example, by affecting their physical and mental health.

Spain also wants to ban social media for children under 16. Meanwhile, Ireland has launched a trial of a digital wallet with an age-verification feature, designed to restrict teenagers’ access to social media. Greece has announced that it will also ban access to social media for children under 15 from 2027.

The UK government plans to ban social media for children under 16 in spring 2027. This includes TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, YouTube and X. However, messaging apps such as WhatsApp and Signal will not be banned.

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