France adopts two-phase ban on social media for children

French President described the legislation as a significant step toward protecting children online.

PARIS: France has approved legislation banning children under the age of 15 from accessing social media platforms, with the restrictions set to be implemented in two phases.

According to international media reports, the first phase will take effect on Sept. 1, when children under 15 will no longer be allowed to create new social media accounts. The second phase, scheduled for January 2027, will extend the restrictions to existing accounts.

French President Emmanuel Macron described the legislation as a significant step toward protecting children online.

The move follows similar measures announced by several countries. The United Kingdom and Australia have also introduced plans to restrict social media access for children under 16, while Britain is additionally moving to ban the sale of energy drinks to minors.