French Parliament approves law banning social media for children under 15

Children with smartphones. Illustrative photo: helenjank/Pixabay

The French government has adopted a law restricting access to social networks for teenagers under 15 years old. As reported by the website pch24.pl, children are prohibited from using social networks without parents' consent.

The bill was supported by 130 deputies, with 21 voting against. French President Emmanuel Macron called the document an important step in regulating digital space, noting that this ban is recommended by specialists and supported by the majority of the population.

Similar regulations were previously adopted by Australia, and discussions of analogous measures continue in the United Kingdom.

The new rules require internet platforms to implement technical mechanisms for verifying users' ages. Violators face significant fines – up to 32 million US dollars. According to a statement by Meta company, only in the first months of the restrictions being in effect, 550 thousand profiles of underage users were deactivated.

The law will come into force after approval of regulatory acts and consultations with digital companies, including TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat and YouTube.

As reported by the UOJ, Denmark also plans to ban social networks for children under 15 years old.

Read also

Major U.S. hospital network refuses to implement new assisted suicide law

Advocate Health Care said it would not participate in Illinois’ assisted suicide program.

OCU activists call TRC to service of persecuted UOC community in Kremenchuk

After seizing the Holy Trinity Church in Kremenchuk, Dumenko's followers attempted to disrupt the worship service of UOC believers held in the open air.

Bila Tserkva authorities attempting to seize monastery building from UOC

The Bila Tserkva City Council is attempting to reclaim the buildings of the St. Mary Magdalene Convent for communal ownership through the courts.

Egyptian police arrest Christians targeted in Muslim attacks

Copts were released once they withdrew their complaints against their assailants.

Primate of Macedonian Church congratulates Lavra's abbot on name day

Archbishop Stefan noted the zeal of the Lavra's abbot, who shares the sorrows of his flock.

Persecuted community in Stari Broskivtsi marks patronal feast in new church

The rector thanked the faithful for building a new church to replace the one that was seized.