法国：将实施青少年“社媒禁令”

Core Viewpoint - France is preparing to implement strict restrictions on social media use for minors, aiming to establish a minimum age for social media usage, following Australia's lead in banning access for individuals under 16 years old [1][2]. Legislative Measures - The French government has completed a legislative draft that proposes two key measures: banning social media use for individuals under 15 years old and prohibiting high school students from using mobile phones on school premises [1]. - This legislation is expected to be submitted to parliament for discussion after the New Year, with a target implementation date of September 2026 [1]. Rationale Behind the Legislation - The French government views excessive social media use among youth as a systemic social risk, linking it to increased exposure to inappropriate content, cyberbullying, anxiety, and sleep disorders, which can negatively impact academic performance and mental health [2]. - President Macron has emphasized the negative correlation between screen time and academic performance, likening social media to "high-performance racing cars" that pose risks when minors lack self-control [2]. Compatibility with EU Regulations - The French government aims to ensure that the proposed ban aligns with the EU legal framework, particularly the EU Digital Services Act, which may provide a replicable regulatory model for other European countries [2]. - Countries like Denmark and Norway are reportedly considering similar restrictions, indicating a growing consensus on establishing a minimum social media usage age in Europe [2]. Implementation Challenges - The successful implementation of the ban faces challenges, including effective age verification, defining platform responsibilities, and preventing users from circumventing restrictions through technical means [3].