British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced plans to ban children under the age of 16 from accessing major social media platforms, unveiling what could become one of the world’s strictest online safety regimes.
The proposed measures would affect platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, YouTube and X, while messaging services including WhatsApp and Signal would remain exempt.
Starmer said the changes are designed to reduce children’s exposure to online harms and improve their wellbeing.
“It is clear to me that a full ban is the right choice,” he said, arguing that the policy would make young people safer and give them greater freedom to enjoy childhood away from digital pressures.
Wider Restrictions Beyond Social Media
The government also plans to introduce new safeguards on gaming and livestreaming platforms, particularly those that allow children to communicate with unknown adults online.
Under the proposals, children under 16 would face restrictions on features such as livestreaming and direct interaction with strangers.
Starmer compared the online risks to real-world situations, arguing that parents would never knowingly allow their children to spend time with unknown adults without supervision.
Inspired by Australia’s Model
The UK intends to follow a similar approach to Australia, which became the first country to introduce a nationwide social media ban for under-16s in late 2025.
British officials said existing regulatory powers would allow initial measures to begin quickly, with further legislation expected by the end of the year. The government hopes a full ban could be operational by spring next year.
Growing Concerns Over Children’s Online Safety
The announcement reflects mounting concern about the impact of social media on young people’s mental health, wellbeing and development.
Britain has already introduced a series of measures requiring technology companies to strengthen age verification systems, adjust recommendation algorithms and tackle the spread of harmful content involving minors.
However, ministers now believe stronger intervention is needed as evidence and public concern continue to grow.
Public Support for Tougher Rules
Before finalising the policy, the government conducted extensive consultations with parents, teachers, technology firms and young people.
More than 116,000 responses were submitted. According to the government, over 83 per cent of parents who participated believed the risks associated with social media outweighed the benefits, while around 90 per cent supported setting 16 as the minimum age for access.
Despite broad public backing, some academics and child development experts remain cautious. Critics argue that there is limited evidence showing outright bans are more effective than regulation and education, and warn that determined teenagers may still find ways to bypass restrictions.
Nevertheless, Starmer’s government appears determined to proceed, framing the policy as a necessary step to rebalance childhood in the digital age and curb the influence of major technology platforms on young users.
(with inputs from Reuters)
