French parliament passes social media ban for under-15s

France has become the first European Union member state to enact comprehensive social media restrictions targeting minors, following parliamentary approval of legislation championed by President Emmanuel Macron. Both chambers of the French legislature voted in favour of the measure on Tuesday, which also prohibits mobile phone use within school settings.

The legislation addresses growing international concern regarding digital content's adverse effects on children's wellbeing. France's public health authority previously identified platforms including TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram as potentially harmful to adolescents, particularly girls, though it noted these platforms were not solely responsible for declining youth mental health. Multiple families have pursued legal action against TikTok, attributing teenage suicides to exposure to harmful online material.

Implementation will occur in two phases. Beginning September 1, individuals under 15 will be prevented from establishing new accounts. Existing accounts held by users in this age group will be terminated by January 2027. Digital Minister Anne Le Henanff confirmed that personal data protection measures will accompany enforcement. The legislation exempts access to educational and scientific resources.

President Macron has advocated for implementation before the September school year, though constitutional review may affect the timeline. Opposition emerged from the left-wing France Unbowed party, which raised concerns regarding constitutional compliance, online anonymity implications, and enforcement feasibility. Conversely, children's advocates and parents largely supported the initiative, with supporters drawing parallels to existing protections against alcohol consumption by minors.