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.

The French National Assembly approved a bill on January 27, 2026, to ban social media for children under 15, citing concerns about online bullying and mental health. If the Senate approves, France will be the second country to enact such a ban, following Australia. President Macron supports the ban, aiming for implementation by the next academic year in September, emphasizing the need to protect children from manipulation by social media platforms. The bill, presented by Laure Miller, aims to set boundaries, addressing concerns about children reading and sleeping less, and comparing themselves more. Social media platforms will have until December 31 to deactivate non-compliant accounts.

French President Emmanuel Macron is pushing for a social media ban for children under 15 in France, aiming for implementation by September. He has requested an accelerated legal process to ensure the legislation passes quickly through the Senate. Macron cited concerns about the manipulation of children's emotions and brains by foreign platforms and algorithms as the primary reason. This announcement follows similar considerations in the UK regarding social media restrictions for young teenagers. A French health watchdog report highlighted the potential harmful effects of social media on teenagers, including reduced self-esteem and exposure to risky content, with a high percentage of French youth using smartphones and social networks daily.

French President Emmanuel Macron has voiced his support for restricting children's access to social media, echoing similar pledges from other world leaders. The proposal, expected to be debated in French Parliament in January, aims to ban social media for children under 15 by September. This initiative follows Australia's implementation of a ban for those under 16 and Malaysia's plans for a similar measure in January. Macron has previously advocated for a digital age of majority and extending restrictions across Europe, citing concerns about online risks to children. The plan also includes extending the existing ban on mobile phones in primary and middle schools to high schools.