The French government has moved forward with a new initiative targeting online safety for children. A bill introduced at the end of 2025 seeks to ban the use of social media platforms for minors under 15. The measure reflects growing concern over the impact of digital platforms on young users.
President Emmanuel Macron highlighted the issue in his New Year’s address, emphasising the risks posed by algorithm-driven addiction and exposure to harmful content. Lawmakers argue that children are particularly vulnerable to cyberbullying, online predators, and psychological stress triggered by social media.
The proposed legislation is concise, consisting of only two articles. It would amend the existing Law on Confidence in the Digital Economy to explicitly prohibit online social networks from providing services to minors under 15. The Regulatory Authority for Audiovisual and Digital Communication (ARCOM) will oversee enforcement and report any violations.
This is not France’s first attempt at such regulation. In 2023, a law established a digital age of majority at 15, but it was never effectively enacted. The previous attempt faced criticism for potentially conflicting with the European Union’s Digital Services Act, which sets overarching rules for platform regulation across member states.
Recent EU guidance has opened the door for national authorities to implement minimum age requirements for social media registration. In November 2025, MP Laure Miller introduced a bill specifically targeting under-15s, signalling renewed legislative momentum. The Assemblée Nationale is scheduled to begin debating the bill on January 19, 2026.
Technological feasibility has been a central discussion point. Age verification systems have already been trialled in industries such as online adult content, where France and the United Kingdom have enforced strict verification processes. Applying similar technologies to general social media platforms is expected to be complex, but proponents argue it is achievable.
Critics, however, caution against potential loopholes and enforcement challenges. Some argue children might circumvent age restrictions by using older siblings’ or parents’ accounts. Others question whether the ban could inadvertently limit digital literacy and social development, as online platforms play a significant role in education and communication.
Despite these concerns, government officials maintain that protecting minors outweighs potential drawbacks. ARCOM will be tasked with monitoring compliance and imposing penalties for noncompliance. The bill’s adoption would represent a significant step in France’s ongoing effort to regulate digital environments and safeguard youth.
International comparisons show a growing trend toward age-based restrictions. Several European countries have debated or implemented similar measures to protect children from harmful online content. France’s move reflects increasing awareness of the psychological and social risks posed by early exposure to social media.
Supporters of the ban also highlight research indicating rising mental health challenges among children linked to social media usage. Studies suggest that prolonged exposure to curated online content can contribute to anxiety, depression, and self-esteem issues, particularly in younger users.
As the debate approaches in early 2026, attention will focus on balancing online protection with children’s access to digital tools for learning and communication. Lawmakers, digital experts, and advocacy groups are expected to weigh in, potentially influencing final amendments to the bill before it becomes law.
If enacted, the measure would mark a historic step in France’s regulation of the digital landscape, setting a precedent for other countries grappling with similar challenges. The outcome of parliamentary discussions will be closely watched, not only in France but across Europe, as policymakers aim to navigate the complexities of online safety for minors.
This initiative underlines the increasing responsibility of governments to address the influence of digital technology on society, particularly on its youngest members. France is poised to become a key example of proactive legislative action to safeguard children in an increasingly connected world.