UK to ban media for young people under 16: “It makes children unhappy"

©hessam nabavi via Unsplash

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer wants to ban social media for young people under the age of 16. Gaming and live-streaming platforms will also face stricter rules, in one of the strictest measures worldwide to better protect children online.

According to Starmer, social media makes young people unhappy, addictive, and vulnerable to bullying. He calls the ban a major moment for the country and says that governments should no longer allow the power of big tech companies to dominate.

Australia paved the way

The British government has been working on stricter online rules for some time. Previously, platforms were required to implement age verification, adjust algorithms, and take stronger action against the distribution of nude images by minors. Yet Starmer believes that is not enough. He points to Australia, which last year became the first country to introduce a social media ban for those under 16.

The British ban would apply to platforms including Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and X. Messaging apps such as WhatsApp and Signal are not included, according to the government. In recent months, the government has consulted with parents, teachers, and young people about potential measures. This included exploring curfews, screen time limits, and restrictions on so-called addictive design tricks in apps.

More than 116,000 people participated in that consultation. The results show that 83 percent of parents believe the risks of social media outweigh the benefits. Nine out of ten respondents also support a minimum age of 16. Starmer wants the law passed before Christmas so the ban can take effect early next year.

Yet there is also criticism. Some psychologists and researchers argue that there is no conclusive evidence that a ban actually works. Young people themselves often have mixed feelings: they recognize the risks of social media, but also use it extensively. Starmer, however, is sticking to his position: the safety and well-being of children come first.

©hessam nabavi via Unsplash - illustrative image of a toddler with a smartphone