EU prepares to impose age restrictions on children's social media use

The European Union (EU) is set to announce a new legislative proposal on Thursday, aimed at protecting minors from the negative effects of social media by introducing age limits and strict algorithmic restrictions. The 'EU Child Act', prepared following intense demands from member countries, especially France and Greece, as well as families, will be introduced by EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at the European Parliament. The regulation aims to impose strict rules on children's access to digital platforms in the 27 member states.

'AGE LIMIT OF 13 OR 15 ON THE TABLE'

The most critical article of the proposal is the age restriction to be imposed on platforms. It has been reported that officials are evaluating options between a complete ban for those under 13, as recommended by expert committees, and a 15-year age limit insisted upon by France.

'ADDICTIVE FEATURES TO BE REMOVED'

In her presentation, von der Leyen is expected to emphasize that platforms used by children must be 'safe by design'. The new law will require companies to disable software features such as notifications and infinite scrolling, which connect minors to screens, foster addiction, and encourage excessive use.