THE’French National Assembly approved a bill That prohibits children under 15 from accessing social media. The measure, promoted by the president Emmanuel Macronit will now have to be confirmed by Senate before coming into force.
If finally approved, France will become one of the first countries in the world, after Australia, to impose such strict limits on young users of online platforms.
What the law provides
According to the approved legislation, minors or use social network services provided by online platforms. Some exceptions are foreseen: online encyclopedias, educational and scientific yearbooks will not be subject to the ban. Also the services of private messaging they will remain accessible.
Initially the bill provided for the possibility of access with the parental consentbut the final version is more restrictive.
President Macron’s comment
President Macron emphasized on X: “This is what scientists recommend and what the French overwhelmingly ask for”. He then added: “From September 1st, our children and teenagers will finally be protected. I will take care of it”. Macron reiterated the importance of defending the minds of young people:
Why Our children’s minds are not for sale. Neither to American platforms, nor to Chinese networks. Because their dreams shouldn’t be dictated by algorithms. Because we don’t want an anxious generation, but a generation that believes in France, in the Republic and in its values.
Ban social networks at the age of 15: this is what predicts scientists, this is what French people demand massively.
After a fruitful journey with the Government, the National Assembly comes to say.
This is a great stage.…
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) January 26, 2026
More and more countries are moving towards this ban
Countries like Australia, United Kingdom, Denmark And Germany they are considering similar measures. In Australia, children under 16 are not allowed to have accounts on many platforms. In the UK, the House of Lords has passed a similar ban, while in Denmark a 15-year limit is being discussed. In Germany, the debate is still ongoing. France is therefore at the forefront in Europe in protecting young social media users.
