Australia's U16 Social Media Ban: Global Ripple, India's Education Path

• Australia implemented the world's first blanket ban on social media for children under 16, effective December 9, compelling major platforms to restrict access.
• Governments worldwide are observing Australia's ban, considering similar frameworks due to concerns over algorithms, compulsive engagement, and online risks for youth.
• Various countries have explored age-based systems or parental controls; Malaysia plans a similar under-16 ban, while the EU suggests a 16+ minimum access age.
• US states are enacting laws for age verification and parental consent, though federal law (COPPA) primarily addresses data privacy for under-13s.
• India's approach focuses on education, digital literacy, and counselling for parents and children, with experts favoring educational reform over a strict social media prohibition.

Why It Matters: Australia's U16 social media ban fuels global child safety debate, impacting India.