Austria plans social media ban for under-14s
AP News • • world
Key Points:
- Austria's governing coalition announced plans to ban social media use for children under 14, with draft legislation expected by the end of June and age verification methods designed to protect privacy.
- The proposed law requires parliamentary approval, and the timeline for its implementation remains unclear.
- Austria joins other countries like Australia, Indonesia, France, Spain, Denmark, and potentially the UK in introducing age restrictions on social media to protect young people from harmful content and excessive screen time.
- Vice Chancellor Andreas Babler emphasized the government's commitment to protecting children from the negative effects of social media, including addiction and mental health issues.
- The ban will be complemented by enhanced education in schools on media literacy and artificial intelligence.
