European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has proposed a "social media delay" for children in Europe, signaling new legislation could be introduced within months.
Speaking at an EU summit in Copenhagen, von der Leyen said an expert panel is expected to deliver steps on protecting minors online by July. She did not rule out a ban, stating, "The discussion about a minimum age for social media can no longer be ignored."
Denmark and nine other EU member states, including France, have proposed minimum age limits. Australia became the first country to ban under-16s last December. The UK is planning strict regulations, with a consultation closing on May 26, 2026. France aims to ban access for children under 15 by September. Spain plans to ban under-16s to combat addiction and harmful content. Portugal requires parental consent for ages 13 to 16. Germany focuses on a ban for under-14s, with restrictions for teens up to 16. Norway plans a strict ban for under-16s by end of 2026. New Zealand, Malaysia, and India have also proposed bans.
The EU has clashed with social media platforms, using the Digital Services Act to enforce child safety. Last month, the Commission found Meta's Instagram and Facebook in breach for failing to keep under-13s off platforms. In February, the EU threatened TikTok over its "addictive design."
The crackdown has drawn criticism from the Trump administration. When Elon Musk's X was fined last December, the US accused the EU of targeting American firms. Von der Leyen responded: "We have set rules. It’s the law, and those who break it will be held accountable."