Denmark to ban social media for under 15s - which networks will face ban?

Denmark is taking a firm stance against the impact of social media on young people.

Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has announced plans to ban social media use for children under 15, calling it a necessary step to protect childhood in the digital age. Her comments come amid growing global concern about online harm to minors. The proposal would make Denmark one of the strictest nations in Europe when it comes to digital safety for kids.

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Why is Denmark targeting social media for children?

Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen announced the initiative during the opening of parliament’s autumn session, saying “The cell phone and social media are robbing our children of their childhood.” She cited studies showing that 60 percent of Danish boys aged 11 to 19 prefer staying home over meeting friends, highlighting how technology is isolating youth, as quoted in a report by The Daily Mail.

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Frederiksen did not specify which platforms would be restricted or how the enforcement process would work but made clear that the goal is to restore balance between digital and real-life interaction among young people.

How are other countries handling social media restrictions?

Australia has taken a leading role in global efforts to protect minors online. In late 2024, its parliament passed a law banning social media access for anyone under 16, the strictest measure in the world. Platforms like Facebook, Snapchat, TikTok, and YouTube are covered under the law, as quoted in a report by The Daily Mail.

Australian Communications Minister Michelle Rowland defended the move, saying, “We know parents are concerned about the harms to children and we have taken a decision to support them.” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese added, “Social media is doing social harm to our children and I want Australian parents to know that we have their backs.”

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Under the Australian law, platforms face fines of up to $50 million for failing to keep minors off their sites, though parents and children face no penalties for breaking the rules, as quoted in a report by The Daily Mail.

Is Europe moving toward unified online age rules?

In June, Greece proposed introducing an “age of digital adulthood” across the European Union. The measure would prevent children from joining social media platforms without parental consent, signaling a broader European shift toward regulating youth access to digital platforms, as quoted in a report by The Daily Mail.

As Denmark joins the debate, Frederiksen’s message is clear, the country must act now to ensure that technology doesn’t replace the essence of childhood.

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FAQs

What age group will Denmark’s social media ban affect?
Children under 15 will be banned from using social media.

Can parents allow younger teens to access social media?
Yes, parents may permit use starting at age 13 under the proposed law.