French lawmakers declare 'battle for free minds' after approving social media ban for children under 15

French lawmakers have approved a bill banning social media for children under 15, citing concerns about its impact on young people's mental health and well-being. The legislation, which also bans mobile phones in high schools, passed in the National Assembly and will now go to the Senate. Proponents of the bill, including President Macron, argue that it is necessary to protect children's developing minds from harmful content and excessive screen time. The move follows similar restrictions in Australia and growing consideration of such measures in the UK and across Europe. A French health watchdog reports that many teenagers spend several hours daily on smartphones, with studies linking heavy social media use to reduced self-esteem and risky behaviors.

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