Signal National under-16 social media bans move from proposal to enforcement

Summary

Restrictions on children's use of social media are moving from debate into enforcement. In December 2025 Australia began blocking under-16s from social media platforms, with fines of up to $50 million for companies that fail to comply. The UK and the UAE have already announced bans, and the USA and Denmark are considering them. The measures reflect public concern over youth mental health, a long-standing call that now has the support of 65% of people globally. Bans alone cannot prevent mental health harms, however, so redesigning platforms with mental health in mind is seen as essential.