EU Moves Closer to Social Media Ban for Under-13s

The European Union is moving forward with plans to restrict access to social media for children under the age of 13, European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen confirmed on Wednesday, according to the Guardian.

Von der Leyen said social media apps were "depriving children of their childhood" and argued that large technology platforms needed to demonstrate the safety of their products before they could be used by young children.

The announcement points to a draft law being prepared by the European Commission that would set age restrictions on social media use across the 27-member bloc, the Guardian reported.

Details of how the proposed ban would be enforced, including verification measures and the timeline for implementation, were not immediately specified in the available reporting.

The move follows growing concern among policymakers and child safety advocates in Europe and elsewhere about the effects of social media on children's mental health and development.

Further details on the draft legislation, including its scope and next steps in the EU's legislative process, are expected to be released as the Commission proceeds with the proposal.