In a landmark decision, French lawmakers have approved a sweeping ban on social media access for children under 15, making France the first European Union country to enact such legislation. The bill, passed with a significant majority of 279 to 81 votes on Tuesday, aims to protect youngsters from the growing global concerns over the harmful effects of digital content.

The new measure, set to take effect in September, will require age verification for all new accounts and mandate that platforms close existing accounts for underage users within four months. Exemptions are made for educational and scientific platforms. The legislation, one of the final major acts of President Macron’s term, also extends to banning mobile phone use in high schools.

While praised by children’s advocates and parents, the bill faces criticism and potential legal challenges. Opponents argue it is hypocritical, inapplicable, and an infringement on internet freedom, as it could be circumvented and lead to increased online surveillance. The vote comes amid stark data from France’s health watchdog, revealing that 90% of children aged 12-17 use smartphones daily and highlighting risks including reduced self-esteem, exposure to self-harm content, and drug-related material.

Note: Although the protection of children is a must, monitoring and regulating their screen time is fundamentally the role of parents—not a matter for a blanket state prohibition. Just saying…