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The Australian controversial policy to prohibit social platforms access for individuals under sixteen is sparking debate around the globe. Lawmakers, child protection groups, and parents are watching intently to see if this tactic will become a template for countries abroad.

Across Europe Momentum

Throughout Europe, a rising group of nations are moving toward similar bans.

• The Danish government plans a restriction on social media for youth below 15, with the PM declaring that smartphones and platforms are "robbing our kids' childhood". Legislation may be formalized in the coming year.
• Norway is planning to introduce a access barrier of 15, pointing to the need to protect children from the "power of the recommendation systems".
• Ireland is developing a online verification tool to verify the identity and age of social media participants. The media minister have suggested that an Australia-style ban could be "one of the options under consideration".
• In Spain, the leader has asked parliament to pass a bill raising the minimum age for accessing social media to 16.
• In France, the head of state has threatened a ban for under-15s, and a government panel has suggested a related step, including an overnight "internet blackout" for adolescents.
• The administration in The Netherlands has recommended families to block their children from social media before 15.

Across the European Union, the European parliament has passed a non-binding statement demanding a ban for teenagers under 16 without parental consent is given. Even though it highlights of the "habit-forming" nature of these apps, the resolution does not create enforceable legislation.

"A strong age barrier is a solid foundation," commented the MEP supporting the initiative.

The UK: A Cautious Eye

In the UK, the leadership has not ruled out a future ban, arguing that "no option is off the table" but insisting any action must be "based on robust data".

Last year, interest grew behind a bill to introduce controls on social media use by teenagers, but it was ultimately weakened. However, the administration pledged to further research the topic.

Charities have raised apprehensions. One foundation founded by the relatives of a teenager who took her own life after being exposed to harmful social media material argues that a simple age ban might not protect children and could lead to a "dangerous transition" of exposure when teens reach the legal age.

"Australia's ban is a answer to the refusal of the social media companies to build products and services that are secure and suitable for young users," said a leading peer.

The US: A Fragmented Landscape

Stateside, regulation is primarily unfolding at the state level due to country-wide stalemate.

• The state of Utah mandates adult approval for minors to use social media and limits nighttime use.
• Florida has passed a measure prohibiting those below 14 from joining social media, though it is subject to court battles.
• The state of Virginia has approved a law restricting teenagers to 60 minutes of social media access per day, with any further time dependent on parental permission.
• The state of Georgia, Tennessee, and Louisiana have also passed bills demanding parental consent for teenagers to open social media accounts.

Despite widespread concern and suggestions from various individuals to mimic Australia's example, a US-wide ban is presently seen as a distant prospect.

International Outlook

Outside of the West, further states are similarly exploring options.

• Malaysia intends to restrict social media for teenagers effective next year.
• The Brazilian authorities has raised the minimum age for the platform Instagram to 16.

Yet, global organizations take a more nuanced position. The UN children's agency has advised that age-based restrictions have downsides and "could backfire". The agency notes that social networks can be a "lifeline" for marginalized youth and that bans should not be a "excuse" for social media firms to invest in child safeguards.

Even as this worldwide conversation evolves, the actions of Australia and its followers demonstrate that policymakers around the world are no longer willing to delay for platforms to make changes on their own.