Brussels: The Flemish government, a regional authority in Belgium, has mandated a minimum age of 13 for access to social media platforms deemed harmful to minors. This move is aimed at compelling social media companies to adopt effective age verification systems, as announced by local authorities.

According to Anadolu Agency, existing rules require children to be at least 13 to create social media accounts. However, officials note that these rules are frequently bypassed due to insufficient enforcement. The new decree will necessitate platforms like TikTok and Snapchat to implement strong age checks to prevent underage users from accessing their services.

This decision comes amidst increasing debate in Flanders about the potential risks associated with social media use among young people. Concerns include exposure to harmful content, unsafe interactions, addictive algorithms, and misinformation. Government sources indicate that these issues have prompted the need for stricter measures.

The new measure builds on the 'Safe Online' action plan approved late last year. This plan avoided a total ban for those under 16, instead focusing on enhancing protections for minors through age verification and limiting addictive features such as endless scrolling.

Under the updated framework, the Flemish government will create an official list of 'harmful social media' platforms that must comply with the age limit. Flemish Media Minister Cieltje Van Achter emphasized the urgency of enforceable rules, noting widespread concern about the impact of these platforms on society, particularly on children. She warned that large tech companies must protect young users or risk being removed from the market.