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The nation's controversial policy to ban social networking access for those under 16 is sending ripples around the globe. Officials, campaigners, and guardians are watching closely to see if this strategy will become a template for the rest of the world.

Across Europe Trend

Across Europe, a rising chorus of countries are moving toward comparable bans.

• Denmark plans a restriction on social media for youth below 15, with the prime minister arguing that phones and networks are "stealing our kids' innocence". A law is expected to be passed next year.
• Norway is planning to enforce a age restriction of 15, pointing to the need to safeguard the young from the "manipulative force of the recommendation systems".
• The Irish government is working on a online verification tool to verify the age and identity of social media participants. Authorities have suggested that an Australia-style ban remains "a potential measures on the table".
• In Spain, the leader has called on lawmakers to pass a law raising the access age for joining social media to 16.
• In The French government, the president has floated the idea of a ban for those under fifteen, and a parliamentary commission has recommended a similar step, alongside an overnight "internet blackout" for adolescents.
• The government in The Netherlands has advised guardians to prevent their kids from social media up to the age of 15.

At the EU level, the European parliament has approved a advisory motion calling for a ban for teenagers under 16 without a parent decides otherwise is given. Although it highlights of the "habit-forming" quality of these apps, the move does not create enforceable legislation.

"An effective age restriction is a solid foundation," stated the European lawmaker behind the resolution.

The United Kingdom: An Evidence-Based Approach

Across Britain, the leadership has not ruled out a potential ban, arguing that "no option is discarded" but stressing any decision must be "based on strong data".

Earlier, support grew behind a proposal to impose restrictions on social media use by minors, but it was in the end modified. Nonetheless, the government committed to investigate the issue.

Campaign organizations have expressed concerns. One foundation established by the family of a girl who was lost after being exposed to disturbing platform posts suggests that a blanket age ban might not protect children and could lead to a "sudden drop-off" of risk when young people turn 16.

"Australia's ban is a response to the inability of the Silicon Valley to design products and services that are secure and suitable for minors," stated a influential child protection advocate.

The United States: A Fragmented Approach

Across America, regulation is largely unfolding at the state level against a backdrop of country-wide inaction.

• Utah demands parental consent for minors to use social media and limits overnight use.
• The state of Florida has passed a law prohibiting those below 14 from accessing social media, though it is subject to court battles.
• Virginia has passed a law limiting minors to one hour of social media access per day, with any further time requiring a guardian's okay.
• The state of Georgia, Tennessee, and Louisiana have also enacted measures mandating guardian approval for minors to set up social media accounts.

Even with bipartisan support and calls from various politicians to mimic Australia's example, a nationwide ban is currently seen as unlikely.

Worldwide Views

Beyond the West, additional nations are also taking action.

• The Malaysian government aims to prohibit social media for under-16s starting from next year.
• Brazil has lifted the minimum age for one major platform to 16.

Yet, international organizations take a more nuanced position. A major UN agency has warned that blanket prohibitions carry risks and "may even backfire". The agency notes that social networks can be a "lifeline" for marginalized youth and that regulation should not be a "excuse" for platform operators to invest in safety.

As this worldwide debate continues, the steps of Australia and its followers indicate that states globally are no longer willing to wait for the industry to act voluntarily.