June 15, Kathmandu – The United Kingdom has decided to prohibit children under the age of 16 from using social media platforms. Prime Minister Keir Starmer described this as a “momentous occasion for the country” and a successful initiative. During a Monday press conference, Prime Minister Starmer acknowledged resistance from social media and technology companies but emphasized that the government is steadfast in its position. He stated that this measure aims to protect children from harmful content and excessive screen time. “I will not compromise when it comes to the safety and well-being of our children,” the Prime Minister affirmed.
This step by the UK is expected to strengthen the global campaign to enforce stricter policies on online child safety. Countries such as Australia, Canada, Brazil, and Indonesia have already implemented age-based restrictions or relevant legislation. Other nations including France, Spain, Denmark, Thailand, and South Korea are also exploring similar measures. Prime Minister Starmer vowed that the UK will implement this law rigorously and will even surpass Australia’s regulatory framework.
According to reports, the Prime Minister has not yet provided detailed information specifying which apps will be banned. However, The Sunday Times has indicated that platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, Snapchat, Threads, Twitch, Kick, and Reddit will be included in the restriction. Additionally, the Prime Minister announced plans to block strangers from contacting children via gaming and live-streaming platforms. The ban is slated to take effect early next year.
Despite facing accusations of weak leadership and mounting calls for resignation within his party, Prime Minister Starmer is pushing forward with this social media ban legislation. He expressed confidence in the effectiveness of this measure. Nonetheless, some child rights advocates have expressed skepticism regarding its efficacy. Starmer indicated that signs of success would include a “significant reduction in the number of children using social media” and a “cultural shift whereby children grow up differently.”
The government reached this decision following a public consultation that garnered approximately 116,000 responses from parents, industry stakeholders, and children. This constitutes the second-largest response since the consultation on same-sex marriage in 2012. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy revealed that many young respondents supported restrictions on children’s social media use. In an interview with the BBC, Nandy stated, “I don’t believe a ban on social media is the only solution, but the outcomes seen in Australia demonstrate that it can play an important role.”
This ban may also heighten tensions between the UK and the United States. The US Embassy in London warned against infringing on freedom of expression rights and argued that such regulations should be narrowly targeted. Concerns have been raised about potential increased burdens on consumers and additional responsibilities for companies. John Crocroft, a communications technology professor at the University of Cambridge, commented that although the intention behind the social media ban is commendable, the approach is flawed. He explained that it could hinder access to websites providing essential information and services. Crocroft added, “There is a risk that some children might be pushed toward more dangerous websites, and technical monitoring is extremely challenging. Regulatory bodies must pay close attention to make platform control feasible.”
