French parliament approves social media ban for children under 15

French lawmakers on Tuesday approved a sweeping bill banning children under 15 from using social media, making France the first European Union country to pass a blanket restriction on platforms like TikTok, Meta, and Instagram. The legislation, enacted with 279 votes in favor and 81 against, marks a pivotal shift in digital regulation and reflects intensifying global scrutiny of social media’s impact on youth. The law, which takes effect on September 1, 2026, for new accounts and January 1, 2027, for existing users, mandates age verification through government-approved systems and requires platforms to suspend accounts of minors within four months of enactment.

Constitutional Review and Enforcement Challenges

The measure, a flagship initiative of President Emmanuel Macron’s second term, faces immediate legal scrutiny. A constitutional review is expected to determine its compliance with French law, potentially delaying implementation. Critics, including left-wing lawmakers from the France Unbowed party, argue the bill risks eroding online anonymity and poses significant enforcement hurdles. Ines Legendre, a legal adviser for e-Enfance, highlighted the complexities of identifying and suspending existing accounts for minors, stating, “How do we verify age? How do we ensure compliance?”

Despite these concerns, the law’s proponents emphasize its urgency. Gaëlle Berbonde, a Paris-area mother whose daughter struggled with anorexia and depression after using TikTok, praised the ban. “The only thing we can do is protect our children, just as we protect our children from drinking alcohol,” she said. The legislation also bans mobile phones in high schools, extending existing restrictions for primary and middle schools.

Health and International Context

France’s health watchdog reported that 90% of children aged 12 to 17 use smartphones daily, with 58% accessing social networks. A December report linked excessive use to reduced self-esteem, increased exposure to harmful content, and heightened risks of self-harm and depression. The law’s exemptions include online encyclopedias, educational directories, and scientific resources, though platforms like YouTube and WhatsApp must verify ages in social network sections, such as shared channels and comment areas.

The move aligns with global trends. Australia became the first country to ban social media for under-16s in December 2024, with fines of up to 50 million Australian dollars for noncompliance. Spain, Denmark, and Greece have proposed similar measures, while the European Commission is reviewing whether France’s law aligns with the EU’s Digital Services Act. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has called for age-appropriate restrictions, recommending a ban on social media for those under 13 until platforms prove safety.

Industry Response and Implementation

Technology companies have pledged compliance but raised privacy concerns. The European Commission introduced a pan-European age verification app in April, alongside private-sector solutions. Digital Affairs Minister Anne Le Hénanff stated, “We French will all have to prove our age for four months. If users are under 15, the account on the platform will be closed.” However, Socialist MP Arthur Delaporte criticized the law’s “vagueness” and “hastiness,” signaling potential appeals to the Constitutional Council.

As France prepares to enforce the ban ahead of the new school year, its approach may influence future debates across Europe. The law represents one of Macron’s final major policy initiatives, with his term set to end next year. The European Commission is expected to propose a pan-EU framework for minors’ online safety in the near future, reflecting the growing urgency of the issue.