Versions :<1234567Live

EU Parliament Backs Youth Social Media Restrictions

Would changes protect children from digital exploitation, or violate youth rights?
EU Parliament Backs Youth Social Media Restrictions
Above: A 12-year-old boy looks at a smartphone screen on March 16, 2023 in Bath, England. Image credit: Matt Cardy/Getty Images

The Spin

Narrative A

Social media platforms deliberately exploit children with addictive algorithms designed to maximize screen time and profits. These tech giants operate with zero accountability while children suffer documented harms including anxiety, sleep problems and declining well-being. Europe must unite to protect kids from digital exploitation with the introduction of age limits, as has already been done in Australia.

Narrative B

Age restrictions on social media will strip young people of privacy and an outlet of expression, all while letting platforms off the hook for making their products safer. Bans are unenforceable since teens will easily circumvent restrictions, leaving them without protections. Media literacy education respects youth agency and addresses real harms better than patronizing prohibitions.

Metaculus Prediction


Public Figures


The Controversies



Go Deeper


Articles on this story



© 2025 Improve the News Foundation. All rights reserved.Version 6.18.0

© 2025 Improve the News Foundation.

All rights reserved.

Version 6.18.0