French President Emmanuel Macron is reportedly preparing a sweeping policy proposal that would ban children under the age of 15 from accessing social media platforms starting September 2026. The move is part of a broader effort to address growing concerns around children’s mental health, online addiction, cyberbullying, and exposure to harmful content.

Rising Alarm Over Children’s Digital Wellbeing

French officials have increasingly voiced concern over the psychological impact of social media on minors, citing studies that link excessive screen time to anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, and declining academic performance. Macron has previously warned that platforms designed for engagement optimization are “not built for children”, and that governments must step in where self-regulation has failed.

Age Verification at the Core of the Proposal

At the heart of the proposed ban lies a mandatory age-verification framework. Reports suggest the French government is evaluating technical solutions such as digital ID systems, third-party verification services, and privacy-preserving age checks to prevent minors from bypassing restrictions. Social media companies could be held legally responsible for enforcement failures.

Pressure Mounts on Big Tech Firms

If enacted, the policy would place significant compliance pressure on global tech giants including Meta, TikTok, Snap, and X. Platforms may be required to redesign onboarding flows, limit algorithmic exposure for younger users, or face hefty financial penalties for violations under French and EU digital laws.

France Could Set a Global Precedent

Macron’s proposal aligns with a broader European push for stricter digital regulation, complementing the EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA). Analysts believe France could become the first major democracy to fully block under-15 social media access, potentially influencing similar legislation across Europe, the UK, and parts of Asia-Pacific.

Critics Warn of Practical and Privacy Challenges

Despite broad public support for child safety initiatives, critics argue that blanket bans may be difficult to enforce and risk infringing on privacy rights. Digital rights groups caution that age-verification systems could lead to data misuse, while others question whether bans will simply drive teens toward unregulated or underground platforms.

What Happens Next

While the proposal is still under discussion, Macron is expected to push for legislative backing in 2025, giving platforms and parents a transition period before enforcement begins in 2026. The coming months will likely see intense debate between policymakers, tech companies, educators, and civil society groups.