Brussels: As a growing number of European countries move to restrict children's access to social media, questions are being raised about why the shift is happening now and whether such measures will be effective. France, Spain, Austria, Norway, Ireland, Germany, Denmark, Greece, the UK, Italy, Portugal, Slovenia, Poland, Finland, the Czech Republic, Latvia, and Lithuania are among the European countries that have taken initial steps or expressed support for banning social media use for children, mostly under ages 14-16. However, experts believe broader measures are needed.

According to Anadolu Agency, Nick Couldry, a professor of media and communication at the London School of Economics, perceives these bans as a response to a crisis in society caused by social media. He highlights the business model of social media, which exploits people's time and attention for profit irrespective of age. Couldry points to the growing damage to communities, particularly children, who are vulnerable to social influence. He cites tragic cases such as suicides linked to online content, body dysmorphia among young girls, and loss of confidence driven by peer pressure on social media platforms.

Ismael Sanz Labrador, an applied economics professor at Madrid-based Rey Juan Carlos University, supports the proposed bans, emphasizing the need to reinforce the roles of schools and parents. He argues that restrictions solely by parents or schools may backfire, as adolescents often dismiss them as unreasonable. Labrador suggests that societal bans could help children recognize the harmful effects of excessive social media use and alleviate their fear of missing out, as their friends would also face the same restrictions.

Jessica Galissaire, a senior policy researcher in Interface's Digital Public Sphere program, acknowledges the growing political urge to address the issue, stating that the proposals stem from real concerns as kids and teenagers are increasingly exposed to harmful content online. However, she cautions that outright bans may not address the core problem and suggests a more holistic approach, focusing on making social media platforms safer for everyone and investing in digital literacy.

Couldry argues that age-based bans address only part of the population, ignoring the effects of social media on adults, including exposure to disinformation. He suggests that current proposals are not bold enough, failing to address the business models that profit from social life on platforms. Couldry calls for governments to support non-profit platforms that are not a threat to society.

Galissaire warns of challenges in implementing the bans, citing a study that shows platforms have not implemented existing age assurance provisions. She notes that age verification tools are not perfect, which could result in blocking some adults while allowing children who appear older. She also highlights the risk of children finding ways around restrictions, such as using VPNs or unregulated platforms.

Galissaire emphasizes the need for stronger sanctions against non-compliant platforms, suggesting that banning them from the European market could send a strong signal. She believes that if such threats were made, platforms would react before penalties are enforced.