France has taken a major step toward restricting social media use for children under 15. On Monday, the National Assembly approved a new bill aimed at protecting young users from online risks. The move comes amid growing concerns about bullying, mental health issues, and excessive screen time.
The proposed law would ban children under 15 from using social media platforms. It would also limit social networking features found inside other digital services. Lawmakers believe these tools expose minors to harmful content and unhealthy comparisons.
The bill passed with strong support. A total of 116 lawmakers voted in favor, while only 23 voted against it. The proposal will now move to the Senate. If approved there, it will return to the lower house for a final vote.
President Emmanuel Macron has openly supported the plan. He has linked social media to rising violence and behavioral problems among youth. Macron wants France to follow the example of Australia. Australia recently enforced a ban for users under 16 on major platforms.
Macron hopes the new rules will take effect by September. This would align with the start of the next academic year. Supporters say early action is necessary to protect children.
Centrist lawmaker Laure Miller presented the bill in parliament. She said social media is not harmless for young minds. She added that children are reading less and sleeping less. According to her, this law is a step toward mental freedom.
Several European countries are also watching this move. Britain, Denmark, Spain, and Greece are studying similar policies. The European Parliament has also urged setting minimum age limits across the EU.
Public support in France appears strong. A 2024 survey showed that 73 percent of citizens back a social media ban for under-15s. Many parents see it as a way to reduce stress and online addiction.
Far-right lawmaker Thierry Perez called the situation a health emergency. He questioned the long-term cost of unlimited digital access for children.
Under the new law, platforms must verify user age. These checks must follow European Union privacy rules. However, experts warn that enforcing such systems may be difficult.
Australia faced similar challenges. After its ban, many children still accessed platforms by lying about their age. This raised concerns about real-world enforcement.
The French bill also expands an existing school policy. Smartphones are already banned in junior and middle schools. The new law would extend this ban to high schools.
Teenagers in Paris shared mixed reactions. Some admitted social media causes stress. Others felt a full ban was too strict.
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Still, France believes strong action is necessary. Officials say child safety must come before digital freedom. If passed, France could become a leader in online child protection in Europe.
