Across the world, governments are quietly rewriting the rules of childhood in the digital age. As social media becomes deeply embedded in daily life, rising concerns over mental health, online safety, data privacy and screen addiction have pushed countries to rethink how young users access these platforms. From strict usage controls to parental consent laws and proposed bans, the global response reveals how differently nations view the balance between protection and freedom.
The United Kingdom’s safety first approach
The United Kingdom has chosen regulation over prohibition. Under the Online Safety Act, platforms are required to block minors from accessing harmful content through age verification and content moderation systems. While there is no legal age ban on social media itself, companies must ensure children are shielded from explicit, violent or self-harm related material. The burden of responsibility is placed on tech platforms rather than on parents alone.
China’s controlled digital environment
China operates one of the most restrictive systems for minors online. A nationwide minor mode enforces device level controls, limiting screen time based on age and blocking access during late night hours. Social media and gaming platforms must comply with strict rules, and parental authentication is needed to override restrictions. Instead of banning access entirely, China tightly regulates usage.
Denmark’s proposed under fifteen ban
Denmark has announced plans to ban social media for children under the age of fifteen, although the policy has not yet been implemented. The proposal reflects growing concern over the psychological impact of early social media exposure. If enforced, Denmark would become one of the first European countries to introduce a near total ban for young users.
France’s parental consent model
France requires social media platforms to obtain parental consent before allowing users under fifteen to create accounts. While the law exists, enforcement remains inconsistent, raising questions about how effectively platforms verify age and consent. Even so, the regulation signals an attempt to restore parental authority in children’s digital lives.
Germany’s consent based access system
In Germany, minors aged thirteen to sixteen are permitted to use social media only with parental approval. Child protection advocates argue that while the legal framework exists, monitoring and enforcement are weak, relying heavily on family oversight.
Malaysia’s upcoming age restriction
Malaysia has announced it will ban social media use for children under sixteen starting in 2026. The move highlights growing concerns in Southeast Asia about online exploitation, cybercrime and mental health risks linked to excessive screen time.
The United States’ fragmented approach
The United States does not have a nationwide age ban. Federal law focuses on protecting the data of children under thirteen, while individual states have begun passing parental consent laws. The result is a patchwork regulatory system with uneven enforcement.
A global turning point
Together, these policies signal a major shift in how governments view social media’s role in childhood. While approaches vary, the underlying message is clear: the digital lives of children are no longer unregulated, and the debate over safety versus freedom is only beginning.