Brussels: European lawmakers have called for a ban on social media for children under 16 unless parents give permission, highlighting growing concerns over the mental health impact of smartphones and online platforms. The European Parliament passed the resolution with strong support, putting pressure on the European Commission to consider new rules.
The vote, while not legally binding, follows Australia’s upcoming under-16 social media ban, which takes effect next month. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has warned that algorithms can exploit children’s vulnerabilities and said parents often feel powerless against the flood of digital content entering their homes.
The resolution, drafted by Danish MEP Christel Schaldemose, aims to make online platforms safer for minors. It calls for features that encourage addictive use, like infinite scrolling, autoplay videos, push notifications, and reward systems, to be turned off by default for children. Schaldemose said society, not just parents, has a responsibility to ensure minors are protected online.
Research cited in the report shows one in four children exhibits problematic smartphone use, with patterns resembling addiction. Under the resolution, children could access social media at 16, with parental consent allowing access from age 13.
Children should be at least 16 to access social media 📱say MEPs on a report adopted today
📽️Statement by Raporteur @SchaldemoseMEP on the vote: https://t.co/JRyZJWoc8e pic.twitter.com/uFPqpEir9T
— European Parliament Audiovisual Service (@europarlAV) November 26, 2025
The debate has also touched on tensions with the United States, where officials have suggested Europe soften tech regulations. French MEP Stéphanie Yon-Courtin said Europe would not compromise on protecting children, emphasizing that digital laws are not for sale to foreign interests.
Europe already has safeguards through its Digital Services Act, which addresses cyberbullying, disinformation, and illegal content. But lawmakers say the law does not fully protect children from addictive platform designs or online exploitation, such as financial incentives for young users to become influencers.
Schaldemose said the Act is strong but could be more precise in addressing harmful ‘dark patterns,’ such as countdown timers or repeated prompts that manipulate behavior.
The resolution passed with 483 votes in favor, 92 against, and 86 abstentions. Critics, mostly Eurosceptic MEPs, argued that decisions on children’s online access should remain with families and national governments rather than the EU.
As public concern over the effects of social media on young users grows, the European Commission now faces pressure to turn the Parliament’s recommendations into actionable legislation, balancing child protection with digital freedoms.
