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The nation's controversial move to ban social platforms access for individuals under sixteen is sending ripples internationally. Politicians, campaigners, and guardians are watching closely to see if this tactic will set a precedent for the rest of the world.

Across Europe Momentum

In Europe, a growing group of nations are considering parallel restrictions.

• The Danish government plans a ban on social media for youth below 15, with the leader arguing that smartphones and networks are "stealing our youngsters' childhood". A law may be enacted soon.
• Norway is set to implement a age restriction of 15, pointing to the need to shield the young from the "influence of the algorithms".
• The Irish government is introducing a digital wallet to verify the user details of social media participants. The media minister have indicated that an Australia-style ban could be "one of the tools under consideration".
• In Spain, the prime minister has called on the legislature to pass a proposal lifting the legal age for using social media to 16.
• In France, the head of state has threatened a ban for under-15s, and a parliamentary commission has recommended a similar step, including an overnight "internet blackout" for older teenagers.
• The government in The Dutch government has advised parents to restrict their kids from social media up to the age of 15.

At the EU level, the EU parliament has adopted a non-binding statement demanding a ban for under-16s except if parental consent is granted. While it highlights of the "addictive" design of these services, the resolution does not enact binding law.

"A clear age restriction is a useful foundation," stated the European lawmaker driving the resolution.

The United Kingdom: A Cautious Stance

Across Britain, the leadership has remained open to a possible ban, stating that "no measure is discarded" but insisting any action must be "based on strong evidence".

Previously, interest grew behind a proposal to impose limits on social media use by under-16s, but it was in the end weakened. However, the administration committed to conduct more studies the topic.

Charities have voiced concerns. An organization set up by the relatives of a teenager who took her own life after being exposed to dangerous platform posts suggests that a strict age ban might not improve online safety and could create a "sudden drop-off" of risk when users become eligible.

"The Australian ban is a reaction to the inability of the tech sector to build products and services that are safe and fit for children," stated a leading peer.

The US: A State-by-State Landscape

In the United States, legislation is primarily unfolding at the local government level amid country-wide stalemate.

• Utah requires adult approval for those under 18 to use social media and restricts late-night use.
• Florida has enacted a law banning those below 14 from joining social media, though it is entangled in constitutional disputes.
• Virginia has passed a law restricting teenagers to 60 minutes of social media use per day, with additional time needing adult consent.
• Georgia, Tennessee, and The state of Louisiana have similarly passed bills requiring parental consent for minors to set up social media profiles.

Despite widespread concern and suggestions from some individuals to mimic this lead, a nationwide ban is currently seen as improbable.

Worldwide Views

Outside of these regions, other countries are likewise exploring options.

• Malaysia aims to restrict social media for under-16s beginning next year.
• The Brazilian authorities has increased the required age for one major platform to 16.

Yet, international bodies take a more nuanced position. A major UN agency has cautioned that social media bans have downsides and "may even backfire". The organization points out that online platforms can be a "critical link" for vulnerable young people and that regulation should not be a "excuse" for tech companies to prioritize user protection.

Even as this global debate unfolds, the steps of Australia and others show that states around the world are increasingly willing to stand by for tech companies to self-regulate.