Norway to ban social media for under-16s
Norwegian authorities intend to require social media platforms to verify users’ ages and ban access for children under 16 in order to safeguard their mental health.
In April 2026, Norwegian authorities announced plans to introduce a ban on social media use for people under the age of 16, The European Conservative reports.
The initiative provides for stricter age restrictions and is aimed at protecting children from the harmful influence of digital platforms. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said the goal of the bill is to ensure that childhood is not dominated by digital platforms.
“We are introducing this legislation because we want a childhood where children get to be children. Play, friendships, and everyday life must not be taken over by algorithms and screens,” he said.
Under the draft law, tech companies will be required to introduce effective age-verification systems and ensure compliance. Responsibility for meeting these requirements will fall on the platforms themselves.
Digitalization Minister Karianne Tung stressed that the burden of enforcement should not fall on children.
"Children cannot be left with the responsibility for staying away from platforms they are not allowed to use. That responsibility rests with the companies providing these services,” she said.
Authorities say the measure will be part of a broader policy to limit screen time among minors, including recommendations and bans on smartphone use in schools.
Norway is joining a number of countries tightening control over children’s use of social media. Similar restrictions have previously been adopted or discussed in Turkey, Australia, and other states.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that Portugal’s parliament had approved a law banning social media for children under 16.
