The European Union is preparing a proposal that would ban children under 15 from using social media, AI chatbots, video-sharing platforms, and online games, according to a European Commission document seen by Reuters. The plan, part of the EU Kids Act, aims to introduce age-based access restrictions across the bloc, with different levels of access for children aged 3 to 14 and full access from age 15.
Under the proposal, children aged 3 to 12 would only be able to use parent-controlled, child-friendly services, while those aged 13 and 14 could have limited accounts under strict parental controls. Platforms would be required to verify users' ages at account creation and before game downloads. They must also provide parental controls, simple reporting tools for harmful content, and avoid addictive design features. Companies would pay a supervisory fee to fund enforcement, the document states (medianama.com).
This initiative reflects growing concerns about the impact of digital platforms on children’s mental health and safety. The EU Kids Act would set a precedent in regulating children’s access to digital services, potentially influencing global standards. The requirements for age verification and design restrictions could significantly affect how social media, gaming, and AI chatbot companies operate within the EU market.
The proposal is not yet final and requires negotiation by EU member states and the European Parliament before becoming law. The EU Kids Act aims to balance children’s digital engagement with protections, with the next legislative discussions expected in the coming months (medianama.com).