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.
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.
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