France moves closer to banning social media for children under 15

Monday 20 July 2026 - 07:46

By: Sahili Aya

France moves closer to banning social media for children under 15

France is on the verge of adopting one of Europe's most ambitious digital protection measures for minors, as lawmakers work to finalize legislation that would prohibit children under the age of 15 from accessing social media platforms.

Members of the National Assembly and the Senate are meeting on Monday in a joint committee to reconcile the remaining differences between their respective versions of the bill. If a compromise is reached, the legislation is expected to return to both chambers for final approval as early as Tuesday.

Government targets September rollout

The French government is seeking a rapid implementation of the reform, aiming for the new rules to take effect at the start of the new school year in September.

The proposed legislation forms part of a broader strategy to reshape young people's relationship with digital technology. Alongside the social media restrictions, the bill also includes a ban on mobile phone use in high schools, extending existing efforts to reduce screen exposure in educational settings.

President Emmanuel Macron has made the initiative one of the defining policy priorities of the final phase of his presidential term, publicly committing to an accelerated legislative timetable.

A landmark digital policy in the European Union

Should the legislation receive final approval, France would become one of the first countries in the European Union to introduce a nationwide age-based restriction on access to social media platforms.

Supporters argue the measure is designed to strengthen protections for children's mental health, online safety and overall well-being at a time of growing concern over the effects of excessive social media use on younger users.

The proposal reflects a broader international trend, with governments increasingly exploring stricter regulations on digital platforms and enhanced safeguards for minors.

Parliamentary negotiations enter decisive stage

The joint committee's task is to produce a unified version of the legislation acceptable to both legislative chambers. Such committees are typically convened when the National Assembly and Senate adopt different versions of the same bill.

Political observers consider an agreement likely, clearing the way for a final parliamentary vote and allowing the government to pursue its planned implementation schedule before the beginning of the next academic year.

If enacted as planned, the reform would position France at the forefront of European efforts to redefine the balance between children's digital access, parental oversight and platform responsibility.