LONDON, United Kingdom
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced plans to ban children under the age of 16 from using social media platforms, as part of a broader effort to strengthen online safety for young people.
According to the Prime Minister, the proposed measures will also introduce stricter regulations for gaming platforms and livestreaming services, with detailed rules expected to be finalized before the end of the year.
The planned reforms would restrict access to social media for users under 16, reflecting growing concerns about the impact of online content on children’s mental health, safety, and well-being.
The government is also expected to tighten oversight of online gaming and livestreaming platforms, where concerns have been raised about exposure to harmful content, cyberbullying, online predators, and excessive screen time.
While full details of the regulations have not yet been released, officials say the measures are intended to create a safer digital environment for children and teenagers.
The announcement comes amid increasing pressure on governments worldwide to address the risks children face online.
UK government has previously introduced online safety laws aimed at requiring technology companies to do more to protect users, particularly minors.
The move places the UK among a growing number of countries considering stricter age limits and parental controls for social media use.
Countries including Australia, France, and several US states have debated or introduced measures aimed at limiting children’s access to certain online platforms.
Supporters argue that stronger safeguards are needed to protect young users, while critics have questioned how such restrictions would be enforced and whether they could affect privacy rights.
Technology companies, gaming firms, and digital rights groups are expected to closely examine the proposed regulations once the government releases further details.
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