Australia's Under-16 Social Media Ban Sparks Global Debate, Europe Considers Similar Moves

• Australia implemented a ban on social media for children under 16, becoming the first nation to do so.
• Countries like France and Britain are now considering similar restrictions, with France discussing a bill for under-15s.
• Supporters argue the ban addresses deteriorating mental health among teenagers, citing platforms like Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube.
• Critics, including French psychiatrist Serge Tisseron, call for a more nuanced approach, questioning the conclusive evidence for an outright ban.
• Experts like Cambridge University researcher Amy Orben await data on the Australian ban's effectiveness and potential unintended consequences.

Why It Matters: Australia's social media ban for under-16s has ignited a global debate, prompting Europe to explore similar measures.