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The nation's bold action to ban social platforms access for those under 16 is sparking debate internationally. Officials, campaigners, and parents are observing intently to see if this tactic will become a template for other nations.

The European Movement

Across Europe, a growing chorus of countries are moving toward similar bans.

• Denmark has announced a prohibition on social media for youth below 15, with the leader arguing that phones and networks are "robbing our children's childhood". The policy is expected to be passed next year.
• The Norwegian government is planning to implement a access barrier of 15, citing the need to protect children from the "influence of the recommendation systems".
• Ireland is introducing a digital ID system to confirm the identity and age of social media participants. Authorities have suggested that an Australia-style ban is "a potential tools on the table".
• In The Spanish government, the president has called on the legislature to enact a proposal raising the access age for using social media to 16.
• In France, the leader has threatened a ban for those under fifteen, and a legislative committee has recommended a comparable step, including an overnight "internet blackout" for 15- to 18-year-olds.
• The authorities in the Netherlands has recommended guardians to block their youngsters from social media before 15.

At the EU level, the European parliament has approved a non-binding motion supporting a ban for teenagers under 16 without parental consent is given. Even though it highlights of the "addictive" design of these apps, the step does not enact mandatory rules.

"A strong age restriction is a solid foundation," said one MEP driving the resolution.

The United Kingdom: A Watchful Eye

In the UK, the administration has not ruled out a future ban, stating that "no option is off the table" but stressing any policy must be "supported by conclusive data".

Last year, support grew behind a bill to impose limits on social media use by under-16s, but it was in the end watered down. Nonetheless, the administration pledged to further research the issue.

Campaign organizations have expressed warnings. One foundation established by the loved ones of a young person who took her own life after encountering dangerous platform posts contends that a blanket age ban may not make platforms safer and could create a "sudden drop-off" of exposure when users turn 16.

"The Australian ban is a answer to the inability of the Silicon Valley to design products and services that are safe and suitable for minors," commented a leading peer.

The US: A Decentralized Approach

Across America, legislation is mostly happening at the state level against a backdrop of national inaction.

• Utah demands guardian permission for under-18s to use social media and controls overnight use.
• Florida has passed a bill prohibiting under-14s from accessing social media, though it is entangled in legal challenges.
• Virginia has passed a regulation limiting minors to a single hour of social media time per day, with any further time dependent on a guardian's okay.
• The state of Georgia, The state of Tennessee, and Louisiana have similarly enacted measures mandating guardian approval for under-16s to set up social media accounts.

Even with cross-party agreement and calls from certain figures to mimic Australia's path, a nationwide ban is presently seen as a distant prospect.

Global Outlook

Apart from Europe and the US, additional countries are also considering moves.

• Malaysia intends to restrict social media for those under sixteen starting from next year.
• Brazil has lifted the minimum age for the platform Instagram to 16.

Yet, international agencies strike a more measured position. A major UN agency has advised that social media bans carry risks and "could prove counterproductive". The organization points out that the internet can be a "lifeline" for isolated young people and that regulation should not be a "substitute" for platform operators to prioritize safety.

While this global discussion evolves, the actions of the Australian government and several other countries show that governments globally are increasingly prepared to delay for platforms to self-regulate.