The United Kingdom’s proposal to ban social media for teenagers has intensified a continent-wide debate on digital child safety. Governments across France, Spain, Austria, Greece, and Denmark are currently evaluating restrictions to combat cyberbullying, addictive design, and self-harm.
A WHO-backed study indicates problematic social media use among adolescents rose from 7% in 2018 to 11% in 2022. Romania, Ireland, and Malta recorded the highest rates, while the Netherlands, Denmark, and Estonia reported the lowest levels of adverse digital behavior.
Adolescent girls face significantly higher risks than boys. In Romania, 28% of 15-year-old girls reported problematic use compared to 18% of boys. Research suggests girls experience greater pressure regarding body image and online connectivity, with 44% maintaining round-the-clock contact with peers versus 29% of boys.
Political momentum for regulation is strong. YouGov data shows 79% support for bans in France and 76% in the UK. Consequently, France’s National Assembly approved restrictions for those under 15, and Spain proposed raising the minimum age to 16.
However, implementation faces significant hurdles. EU regulations prevent national governments from unilaterally forcing platforms like TikTok or Instagram to block users overnight. Furthermore, despite high public approval, long-term case studies confirming the effectiveness of these bans on youth wellbeing remain scarce.