Macron's Bold Social Media Ban for Kids Under 15
French President Emmanuel Macron is taking a strong stand against social media usage among children under the age of 15. He has announced plans to fast-track legislation aimed at enforcing a ban by September, coinciding with the start of the new school year. This initiative highlights the growing concern over children’s mental health and the negative impacts of social media.
Macron stated, “The brains of our children and our teenagers are not for sale.” This message underscores his belief that children should be protected from being manipulated by social media platforms, which often exploit their emotions for profit. His comments reflect a broader trend, as the UK and Australia are also considering similar measures to safeguard young users.
Statistics reveal alarming habits among teenagers in France, where one in two spends between two to five hours daily on smartphones. A report indicated that approximately 90% of children aged 12 to 17 regularly use smartphones for internet access, with a significant portion engaging in social networking. This excessive screen time raises serious concerns about self-esteem and exposure to harmful content related to risky behaviors like self-harm or drug use.
Macron's proposal comes in response to these issues. Families in France have taken legal action against social media platforms like TikTok, claiming a link between harmful content and cases of teen suicides. By implementing a ban on social media for children under 15, Macron aims to provide a clearer framework for families, educators, and the young users themselves.
In addition to the social media ban, Macron plans to prohibit mobile phones in high schools. He believes this will create a safer and more supportive environment for teenagers. The clarity of these rules is intended to help parents, teachers, and students understand the boundaries and the importance of mental well-being.
Australia's experience serves as a reference point, where social media companies have disabled millions of accounts belonging to children since instituting a similar ban. This has sparked debates regarding privacy, child safety, and the role of technology in everyday life.
As countries around the world grapple with the implications of social media on youth, Macron's push for legislation could pave the way for more protective measures that prioritize the mental health of children and teenagers.
