Trendpills
The Danish government has announced a proposal to ban social media access for children under the age of 15, a significant step aimed at addressing the growing mental health crisis among young people. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen declared the initiative during her opening speech to the Danish parliament, stating that society had "unleashed a monster." She argued that digital platforms are detrimental to the well-being of minors, asserting that "mobile phones and social media are stealing our children's childhood."
The proposed legislation stems from mounting concerns over the negative effects of social media on adolescents. Frederiksen highlighted issues such as anxiety, depression, and social isolation, which are increasingly linked to heavy screen time. According to a government report, a staggering 60% of 13-year-old girls in Denmark feel their social media usage is out of their control. The move underscores a belief within the government that digital platforms are harming children's focus and wellbeing, prompting the need for regulatory action.
While the government has not yet specified which platforms would be affected by the ban, the proposal outlines a clear age limit. According to reports, the new rules could allow parents to grant permission for children aged 13 and 14 to use certain platforms, though access would be restricted by default. The Danish government's plan to partially ban social media reflects a growing European trend toward stricter regulation of the tech industry, particularly where children's safety is concerned. It follows similar legislative efforts in other countries, such as Australia, which recently introduced a ban on social media for those under 16.
The initiative has ignited a debate across Europe on how to best protect young users online. As Denmark moves forward with its plan, it joins a chorus of nations questioning the largely unregulated digital environment that children navigate daily. The push for a Danish social media ban signals a potential shift in how governments hold tech companies accountable for their platforms' impact on the youngest members of society.
