New Zealand to introduce bill for under-16s social media ban

New Zealand's government plans to introduce a bill that would ban individuals under 16 from using social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, and Facebook. The proposed legislation requires these platforms to verify users' ages, with potential fines of up to 10% of global revenue for non-compliance. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon stated the ban aims to protect children from harmful content, addictive technology, and undue pressures, citing negative impacts on family life, mental health, sleep, and education. However, the bill faces opposition from several political parties who intend to vote against it. This initiative follows similar measures in Australia and upcoming restrictions in the UK and Greece.

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon's party plans to introduce a bill to ban children under 16 from social media, citing harm to their mental health, sleep, and education. The proposed legislation would require platforms to verify user ages through methods like facial technology and digital identity documents, with fines of up to 10% of global revenue for non-compliance. However, a coalition partner, New Zealand First, has stated it will not support the bill, arguing it's a "slippery slope" and that parental responsibility is key. Luxon acknowledged the difficulty but emphasized the importance of trying to protect children.

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced that his party will introduce a bill to ban children under 16 from using social media. The proposed legislation aims to protect a generation of New Zealand children from harm. Social media platforms would be required to implement reasonable age verification measures, such as using existing account information, facial technology, and digital identity documents. Non-compliant platforms could face fines of up to 10 percent of their global revenue. The bill is expected to be introduced in parliament.

The UK government's attempt to delay new restrictions on children's social media access for up to three years is facing significant opposition in the House of Lords. Ministers have proposed an amendment to the children's wellbeing and schools bill that would allow for a delayed introduction of measures, which critics argue could weaken commitments to act swiftly and result in less impactful interventions. Campaigners and peers, led by Lord John Nash, are urging the Lords to reject this proposal and instead support an amendment that would mandate raising the minimum age for social media access to 16 within 12 months. This vote, occurring as parliament nears prorogation, represents a final opportunity for peers to push for stronger legislation, with Lord Nash accusing the government of deception.