France has passed legislation restricting social media access for children under 15, making it the first major European country to implement such a ban. The law also prohibits mobile phones in schools.
The French parliament approved the bill as part of a broader effort to protect minors from digital platforms. The legislation prohibits children under 15 from creating social media accounts and accessing popular platforms without parental consent.
The law extends beyond social media, banning mobile phone use in educational settings entirely. Schools will have authority to enforce restrictions on device usage during school hours.
France's move marks a significant shift in European digital regulation and places the country ahead of other nations considering similar protections. The ban is expected to affect major US technology platforms including Meta, TikTok, and X.
The legislation reflects growing concerns about social media's impact on child mental health, screen time dependency, and online safety. French lawmakers cited research linking excessive social media use to anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders among young people.
Implementation details and enforcement mechanisms are still being finalized. The law is expected to take effect within the coming months.
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