On July 21, 2026, a French parliamentary committee approved a bill that would ban social media platforms for users under the age of 15 without parental consent. The proposal, backed by lawmakers from various parties, aims to protect minors from online risks such as cyberbullying and harmful content.
The bill requires social media companies to verify users' ages and obtain parental authorization for those under 15. Non-compliance could result in fines. The measure now moves to the full National Assembly for debate and a vote.
Supporters argue that the law is necessary to safeguard children's mental health and privacy. Critics, however, raise concerns about enforcement and potential overreach. Similar regulations have been proposed in other European countries, reflecting a growing trend to tighten online protections for minors.
