UK to ban social media use for those under 16 starting in 2027

[83988] UK to ban social media use for those under 16 starting in 2027

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced legislation that will ban minors from accessing social media to protect their mental health and restore their childhood.

UK to ban access to social media for minors

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced a dramatic move that will ban access to social media for those under the age of 16. According to КОНТЕКСТ reports, the government aims to "give children back their childhood" after thousands of parents complained about an addiction that puts the mental health of young people at risk.

Details of the restrictions

The ban, which is expected to take effect in the spring of 2027, will apply to major platforms such as TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, X, and Snapchat, according to УНИАН. In addition, the government is considering restrictions on other features, including a ban on streaming and communication with strangers in online games. Телеканал Дождь, which is associated with liberal positions, notes that a "digital curfew" may also be imposed on older users during late-night hours.

Reactions and criticism

While Starmer stated that the government "stands with families and not with tech companies," Donald Trump на русском reports that tech giants, including YouTube and Snapchat, have expressed opposition to the move. They argue that sweeping bans could lead young people to anonymous, less-monitored, and more dangerous platforms.

International context

Russian media outlets critical of Western policies, such as РИА Новости and Душная община, emphasized the difficulty of enforcing such a ban but noted that other countries, such as Australia, Indonesia, and Malaysia, have already taken similar steps. Кали юга today 2.0 noted, on the other hand, concern among teachers and students that blocking educational platforms like YouTube could harm preparation for school exams.