Should Social Media Be Banned for Kids Under 15? French Report Raises TikTok Concerns

In a bold move aimed at safeguarding the mental health of minors, a French parliamentary commission has recommended banning children under 15 from social media and imposing a digital curfew for those aged 15 to 18. The inquiry, which lasted six months, focused on the psychological effects of platforms like TikTok, highlighting concerns about the exposure of young people to harmful content. This recommendation follows disturbing testimonies from families who have lost children to suicide, allegedly linked to the content found on social media.

Last updated: 27 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• French parliamentary commission recommends banning children under 15 from social media.
• A digital curfew is suggested for 15-18 year-olds to protect their mental health.
• The inquiry highlighted TikTok’s role in exposing minors to harmful content.
• Families testified about the devastating impact of social media on their children's mental health.
• Similar bans are being considered in Denmark and Spain.

Background of the Inquiry

The inquiry was initiated in response to alarming claims that TikTok exposes minors to content that could have fatal consequences. Reports indicated that the platform has been a source of distress for many young users. Families shared harrowing stories of children who were influenced by videos promoting self-harm and suicidal ideation. One mother described how her daughter had become fixated on content that glorified suicide as an escape, leading to tragic outcomes.

The Commission's Findings

The commission found that TikTok, which has rapidly gained popularity among younger audiences, presents a myriad of risks. The inquiry concluded that the platform "knowingly exposes our children, our young people to toxic, dangerous and addictive content." This led to the strong recommendation for a ban on under-15s using social media altogether.

TikTok's Response

In response to the commission's findings, TikTok defended its practices, asserting that it has a "robust trust and safety programme" in place. The platform claims to have implemented over 70 features designed to ensure the safety and well-being of its users. However, these measures have not assuaged the concerns raised by the commission, which described TikTok as a "production line of distress" for minors.

The Recommendations: Key Proposals

Among the 43 recommendations made by the inquiry, several stand out as particularly significant:

1. Ban for Under-15s: A complete ban on social media access for children under the age of 15.
2. Digital Curfew: An overnight curfew prohibiting social media use for those aged 15 to 18.
3. Parental Accountability: Introducing penalties for parents who fail to monitor their children's social media usage adequately.
4. Stricter Content Regulation: Enhancing regulations surrounding the type of content accessible to minors.

International Context and Similar Measures

France's inquiry comes in the wake of similar measures being considered in other countries. Australia is set to enforce a ban on social media for children under 16, effective from 10 December 2023. This law will impose hefty fines on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and YouTube if they do not take reasonable steps to prevent under-16s from creating accounts.

Comparative Legislation in Europe

Denmark is exploring a similar ban on social media for children under 15, while Spain has proposed legislation requiring parental consent for minors under 16 to access social media platforms. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has expressed interest in the progress of these initiatives and is expected to announce a panel of experts to evaluate the best approach for protecting minors in the digital landscape by the end of 2025.

The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health

The inquiry has underscored the broader issue of social media's influence on mental health among young people. As platforms like TikTok thrive on user engagement, concerns are mounting about their role in amplifying negative emotions and promoting harmful behaviours. The testimonies from bereaved families illustrate the urgent need for action.

The Reality of Digital Negligence

The lead author of the inquiry, Laure Miller, raised a critical point regarding parental responsibility. She suggested that if a young child is spending excessive amounts of time on social media, one must question whether their safety and morality are genuinely being protected by their guardians. This notion underscores the need for a collaborative effort between parents and legislative bodies in fostering a safer digital environment for children.

Regulatory Developments Ahead

As the French National Assembly deliberates on how to regulate the digital sector, the inquiry’s recommendations could set a precedent for future legislation. The chairman of the inquiry, Arthur Delaporte, has taken the step of referring allegations against TikTok to the Paris public prosecutor, suggesting that legal ramifications may follow if the platform is found to have endangered its users.

The Future of Digital Regulations

The ongoing discussions in France and other European countries signal a growing recognition of the need for stricter regulations surrounding social media usage among minors. As policymakers grapple with these challenges, the outcomes of these inquiries could shape the future landscape of digital safety for children across Europe.

Conclusion: A Call for Action

The recommendations from the French parliamentary commission highlight the urgent need for comprehensive measures to protect young users from the potential dangers of social media. As families continue to share their stories of loss and distress, it is crucial for governments and platforms to work together to create a safer online environment. The implications of these recommendations extend beyond France, potentially influencing global standards for social media regulations aimed at safeguarding the mental health of future generations.

FAQs

Why is the French parliamentary commission recommending a ban on social media for under-15s?

The commission found that platforms like TikTok expose minors to harmful and addictive content, which can negatively impact their mental health, leading to severe consequences, including suicide.

What are the proposed measures for 15-18 year-olds?

A digital curfew is suggested, preventing those aged 15 to 18 from using social media overnight to protect their mental health.

How is TikTok responding to these recommendations?

TikTok has rejected the commission's characterisation of its platform, asserting that it has implemented numerous safety features aimed at protecting young users.

What other countries are considering similar bans?

Australia, Denmark, and Spain are also exploring or implementing legislative measures to restrict social media access for minors, reflecting growing concerns about the impact of social media on youth.

What could happen next following the inquiry's findings?

The findings may lead to legal actions against TikTok and could influence new regulations across Europe aimed at protecting minors from harmful online content.