France: France has officially submitted new legal provisions to the European Commission aimed at limiting social media access for individuals under the age of 15. This move, announced by President Emmanuel Macron, follows the rejection of a previous legislative attempt by the Constitutional Council, which highlighted concerns over potential restrictions on freedom of expression and communication.
According to Anadolu Agency, President Macron emphasized his commitment to safeguarding children online and expressed his determination to pursue this objective to completion. Announcing the plan on the social media platform X, Macron highlighted the necessity of the revised legislation, which aligns with both the Constitutional Council's concerns and European Union regulations.
The updated plan does not target specific platforms but rather focuses on ten features deemed harmful or potentially addictive to minors. These include automatic video playback, nighttime notifications, and interactions with unknown accounts. The proposed legislation maintains the minimum age of 15 for unrestricted access, while allowing those aged 13 to 15 to join social media with approval from their legal guardians.
Crucially, the French government has decided against implementing new age verification mechanisms, opting instead to rely on existing EU data protection standards. Macron also expressed his desire for these protective measures to be extended throughout the EU, advocating for swift and ambitious action to harmonize restrictions and regulate platform features.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is anticipated to address this issue in her upcoming State of the Union speech. An expert committee appointed by von der Leyen has recommended banning social media use by children under 13, except under parental supervision or within educational contexts, with gradual access beginning at age 13.
As France awaits the Commission's response before proceeding with further legislative actions, Macron has pledged full support for EU initiatives aimed at enhancing online protections for minors.