French lawmakers to vote on social media ban for under-15s

French lawmakers have voted to ban social media use for children under the age of 15, a significant legislative move aimed at protecting children's health by limiting their exposure to excessive screen time. The bill was passed by the lower national assembly with a vote of 130 to 21 during a lengthy overnight session from Monday to Tuesday. If enacted, the law is expected to come into effect in September, coinciding with the new school year. This legislation also includes a provision to prohibit mobile phones in high schools, further regulating technology use among minors. The initiative has been championed by French President Emmanuel Macron, who has emphasized the importance of safeguarding children's mental health. Macron stated, "children's brains are not for sale," highlighting concerns about the impact of social media on young users. The proposed ban specifically targets major tech platforms and algorithms, reflecting a broader concern regarding the responsibilities of social media companies in relation to minors. This legislative action follows Australia's recent ban on social media for individuals under 16, which was implemented in December 2022. France's approach marks it as the second country to take such a step. French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has indicated that the government will utilize a fast-track procedure to expedite the legislation's passage, aiming for swift implementation. The move has sparked discussions about the role of technology in children's lives and the need for stricter regulations to protect young users from potential harm associated with social media platforms. The French government's initiative is part of an ongoing global conversation about the responsibilities of technology companies in ensuring the safety and well-being of children online.