France plans to ban social media for children under 15 starting in September 2026, following Australia’s recent move to block access for users under 16. A draft bill, which also proposes banning mobile phones in high schools, will soon undergo legal review and is expected to be debated in parliament early next year.
President Emmanuel Macron has emphasized the need to act quickly, citing concerns over excessive screen time, exposure to harmful content, cyberbullying, and disrupted sleep. He compared letting young teens use social media freely to putting them behind the wheel of a Formula One car without teaching them to drive first.
The proposed ban targets platforms like Facebook, Snapchat, TikTok, and YouTube. While phones are already prohibited in primary and middle schools, the new law would extend that restriction to high schools.
Other countries, including Denmark and Norway, are considering similar measures. France’s digital minister has stated that the bill will be concise and aligned with European Union regulations, particularly the Digital Services Act aimed at combating online harms.
This initiative comes as Macron seeks to define his legacy amid political challenges, including a divided parliament and ongoing budget negotiations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of FAQs about Frances upcoming social media restrictions for children designed to answer questions from basic to more detailed
Basic Definition Questions
1 What is this new law in France
France has passed a law that will require social media platforms to verify a users age and prevent children under the age of 15 from creating accounts without parental consent starting in September 2026
2 Is social media being completely banned for kids under 15
No its not an outright ban Children under 15 will need verifiable parental consent to open an account Without that consent they will be blocked from signing up
3 Which social media platforms does this apply to
It applies to all major social media platforms operating in France like TikTok Instagram Snapchat Facebook and others that facilitate online interaction and content sharing
4 When does this rule start
The law is scheduled to take effect in September 2026 This gives platforms and families time to prepare for the new verification systems
How It Works Enforcement
5 How will platforms verify a users age and parental consent
The specific technical methods are still being developed but they will likely involve secure digital identity systems Options may include connecting to a government ID database using certified thirdparty age verification services or requiring a parent to confirm via a secure process
6 What happens to existing accounts held by kids under 15
The law will apply to new account creations For existing accounts platforms will likely be required to identify underage users and either obtain parental consent or suspend those accounts
7 Who is responsible for checking the agethe parents or the platforms
Ultimately the legal responsibility falls on the social media platforms They must implement systems to block underage users who lack parental approval Parents are responsible for giving or withholding consent
8 Can a child just lie about their age
The new systems are designed to make that much harder Simple selfdeclaration of age will not be sufficient Platforms will need to use more reliable verification methods
Reasons Impact
9 Why is France doing this
The main goals are to
