The European Commission announced the EU Kids Act, a sweeping plan to curb social media use among children under 15 across all member states. The proposal would ban users under 13 from accessing any platform, while those aged 13 to 15 could only log in for a single hour each day via “mini accounts” linked to a parent or guardian’s profile.
Under the legislation, social media companies must demonstrate that their platforms are safe by design or face fines of up to 6% of global sales. EU Commissioner Ursula von der Leyen said the move would “put parents back in the driving seat” and provide them with tools to guide children through a safer online world.
The restrictions would cover major apps such as TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat, as well as YouTube, video‑sharing sites, AI chatbots and online games. Children aged 15 and older would retain the right to open accounts on their own. Von der Leyen warned that an age limit does not absolve tech firms from content responsibility, and the act would require detailed child‑safety plans from platforms.
Some EU members, including France and Spain, have already drafted national measures to limit under‑15 access, but the EU‑wide law would supersede them and prevent member states from opting out. France’s attempt to ban under‑15s was struck down by the top court last month over freedom‑of‑expression concerns, prompting the government to revise its proposal.
Critics raise privacy worries about age verification, though the Commission says it will use the existing EU age‑verification app without collecting or sharing personal data. Enforcement mechanisms remain unclear, and the legislation faces potential opposition as member states debate its scope and impact.
The EU’s plan follows earlier actions, such as a July directive that could fine Meta for addictive design features and an August settlement with U.S. states over child harm claims. The Commission cited a special panel on child safety and a 92% survey response rate prioritising stronger online protection for minors.
As the EU Parliament and member states review the proposal, the outcome will shape how children across Europe navigate social media and could set a precedent for other regions considering similar safeguards.
