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The nation's bold action to ban social networking access for individuals under sixteen is sending ripples internationally. Lawmakers, child protection groups, and parents are watching intently to see if this strategy will inspire imitation for countries abroad.

Across Europe Trend

Throughout Europe, a increasing number of states are considering similar restrictions.

• Denmark has stated a restriction on social media for under-15s, with the PM declaring that mobile devices and networks are "stealing our kids' youth". The policy could be formalized next year.
• Norway is planning to enforce a age restriction of 15, citing the need to shield the young from the "power of the AI".
• Ireland is working on a digital ID system to confirm the user details of social media users. The media minister have stated that an Australian-model ban is "a potential tools in reserve".
• In Spain, the prime minister has called on lawmakers to enact a law raising the minimum age for accessing social media to 16.
• In France, the head of state has proposed a ban for under-15s, and a legislative committee has recommended a related action, including an overnight "digital curfew" for older teenagers.
• The administration in The Netherlands has urged parents to restrict their youngsters from social media before 15.

For the broader EU, the EU parliament has adopted a non-binding motion calling for a ban for under-16s without parental consent is given. Even though it warns of the "compulsive" nature of these services, the step does not create mandatory rules.

"A strong age limit is a good starting point," stated the MEP behind the initiative.

The UK: An Evidence-Based Stance

Across Britain, the government has remained open to a possible ban, arguing that "nothing is off the table" but stressing any action must be "supported by strong research".

Previously, interest grew behind a legislative effort to introduce restrictions on social media use by under-16s, but it was ultimately weakened. However, the government vowed to further research the topic.

Advocacy groups have raised apprehensions. A prominent charity set up by the relatives of a girl who was lost after encountering harmful platform posts argues that a simple age ban could fail to protect children and could result in a "dangerous transition" of exposure when teens reach the legal age.

"Australia's ban is a reaction to the refusal of the social media companies to create platforms and apps that are appropriate and suitable for young users," commented a leading peer.

The United States: A Decentralized Picture

Stateside, legislation is largely occurring at the regional level against a backdrop of country-wide stalemate.

• Utah demands adult approval for those under 18 to use social media and limits late-night use.
• The state of Florida has enacted a bill barring children under fourteen from accessing social media, though it is entangled in court battles.
• The state of Virginia has passed a law restricting minors to one hour of social media access per day, with any further use dependent on adult consent.
• Georgia, The state of Tennessee, and Louisiana have similarly introduced measures requiring parental consent for teenagers to set up social media profiles.

Despite bipartisan support and calls from some figures to follow the Australian path, a US-wide ban is right now seen as unlikely.

Global Outlook

Outside of the West, additional nations are likewise exploring options.

• Malaysia aims to ban social media for teenagers effective next year.
• Brazil has raised the minimum age for one major platform to 16.

Yet, global agencies adopt a more cautious position. A major UN agency has cautioned that age-based restrictions have downsides and "may even have unintended consequences". The body points out that online platforms can be a "vital connection" for marginalized children and that bans should not be a "substitute" for social media firms to improve user protection.

While this worldwide debate evolves, the policies of Australia and several other countries indicate that governments around the world are less and less prepared to stand by for the industry to self-regulate.