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The nation's controversial action to restrict social networking access for those under 16 is sparking debate around the globe. Officials, safety advocates, and parents are observing intently to see if this tactic will become a template for countries abroad.

Across Europe Momentum

Throughout Europe, a increasing number of nations are considering comparable bans.

• The Danish government has announced a ban on social media for under-15s, with the leader arguing that mobile devices and networks are "stealing our kids' youth". A law is expected to be passed next year.
• Norway is planning to enforce a access barrier of 15, highlighting the need to protect the young from the "power of the algorithms".
• Ireland is working on a digital wallet to authenticate the age and identity of social media account holders. Authorities have stated that an Australia-style ban is "an measures under consideration".
• In Spain, the president has urged lawmakers to enact a law increasing the legal age for using social media to 16.
• In France, the head of state has proposed a ban for under-15s, and a government panel has suggested a comparable move, potentially involving an overnight "digital curfew" for 15- to 18-year-olds.
• The administration in The Dutch government has advised families to block their kids from social media until 15.

Across the European Union, the European parliament has passed a symbolic motion demanding a ban for minors without guardian approval is given. While it highlights of the "compulsive" nature of these services, the step does not create enforceable legislation.

"An effective age restriction is a solid starting point," stated the parliamentarian behind the initiative.

The UK: A Watchful Stance

For the United Kingdom, the leadership has not ruled out a potential ban, emphasizing that "no measure is discarded" but maintaining any action must be "supported by strong data".

Last year, support gathered behind a proposal to introduce controls on social media use by teenagers, but it was ultimately watered down. Nonetheless, the administration committed to conduct more studies the matter.

Campaign organizations have raised apprehensions. A prominent charity established by the relatives of a young person who died after encountering harmful online content contends that a simple age ban may not make platforms safer and could lead to a "cliff edge" of harm when young people reach the legal age.

"The Australian ban is a response to the failure of the tech sector to create products and services that are secure and age appropriate for minors," stated a leading child protection advocate.

The United States: A Decentralized Picture

Across America, legislation is largely occurring at the regional level due to country-wide stalemate.

• Utah demands parental consent for minors to use social media and restricts nighttime use.
• Florida has signed a law barring children under fourteen from accessing social media, though it faces court battles.
• Virginia has enacted a law limiting minors to 60 minutes of social media time per day, with extra time dependent on adult consent.
• Georgia, The state of Tennessee, and The state of Louisiana have also introduced measures demanding parental consent for teenagers to set up social media presences.

Even with cross-party agreement and calls from certain politicians to mimic Australia's lead, a US-wide ban is right now seen as improbable.

Global Views

Outside of the West, other states are similarly considering moves.

• The Malaysian government aims to ban social media for those under sixteen beginning next year.
• Brazil has raised the access age for one major platform to 16.

But, international agencies adopt a more cautious tone. A major UN agency has advised that social media bans have downsides and "may even prove counterproductive". The body points out that online platforms can be a "vital connection" for isolated young people and that regulation should not be a "replacement" for tech companies to invest in child safeguards.

While this global discussion continues, the actions of Australia and others demonstrate that governments internationally are less and less prepared to wait for the industry to self-regulate.