Countries That Are Banning Social Media for Children (2026 Update)

Over the past several months, many countries have announced plans to restrict social media access for children and teens. Australia became the first to implement such measures at the end of 2025, setting a precedent that other nations are now watching closely.

These regulations aim to reduce the pressures and risks young users face online, including cyberbullying, addiction, mental health concerns, and exposure to harmful or predatory content.

At the same time, critics have raised concerns about privacy, particularly around age verification systems, as well as the broader question of government overreach.

Australia

Australia became the world’s first country to ban social media for children under 16 in December 2025.

The ban blocks access to platforms including Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Threads, TikTok, X, YouTube, Reddit, Twitch, and Kick.

Services such as WhatsApp and YouTube Kids are not included.

The government has said companies must take active steps to prevent underage users from accessing their platforms. Firms that fail to comply could face penalties of up to AUD 49.5 million. Authorities have also made clear that self-declared age inputs are not sufficient, requiring stronger verification systems.

Denmark

Denmark is set to ban social media for children under 15.

The government announced in late 2025 that it had secured support from multiple political parties. The proposal could become law by mid-2026.

Authorities are also developing a digital verification system that could be used to enforce age restrictions across platforms.

France

France has passed a bill to ban social media access for children under 15.

The measure has been backed by President Emmanuel Macron as part of efforts to reduce excessive screen time among young users.

The legislation still requires further approval before it becomes law.

Germany

In Germany, policymakers have discussed a proposal to ban social media for children under 16.

The idea has been put forward by conservative leaders, though there are indications that coalition partners may not fully support an outright ban, leaving its future uncertain.

Greece

Greece plans to ban access to social media for children under 15 starting in 2027.

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has said the move is aimed at addressing rising anxiety, sleep disruption, and the addictive design of social platforms.

Indonesia

Indonesia has announced plans to ban children under 16 from using social media and other online platforms.

The restrictions are expected to apply to services including TikTok, YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Bigo Live, and Roblox.

Malaysia

Malaysia has said it plans to ban social media for children under 16.

The proposal was announced in late 2025, with implementation expected to follow as part of broader digital safety efforts.

Slovenia

Slovenia is drafting legislation to prohibit children under 15 from accessing social media.

Officials have said the focus will be on platforms where user-generated content is widely shared, including apps like TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram.

Spain

Spain plans to ban social media for children under the age of 16.

The proposal still requires parliamentary approval. In addition, the government is exploring measures that would hold social media executives accountable for harmful content on their platforms.

United Kingdom

United Kingdom is considering a ban on social media for children under 16.

The government is currently consulting parents, young people, and civil society groups to assess whether such a move would be effective.

Officials are also evaluating whether to restrict features that encourage compulsive use, such as infinite scrolling.

The Bigger Picture

While approaches vary, the direction is consistent. Governments are increasingly willing to intervene in how children access social media, pushing platforms to introduce stricter safeguards.