Meta calls on Australia to take a coordinated approach to network bans

Australia has introduced a strict ban on social media for people under the age of 16, resulting in Meta blocking approximately 550,000 accounts on Instagram, Facebook, and Threads.

The law, which came into effect in December last year, aims to protect children from harmful content and the influence of algorithms. Australia is the first country to introduce this ban without the possibility of exceptions based on parental consent.

According to the BBC, Meta currently recognizes the need to improve online safety for children but recommends a coordinated approach across the entire technology sector and prefers age verification through app stores. It warns that young people may switch to less controlled apps.

The law has broad public support, especially from parents, and is inspiring other countries. However, experts point to the risk of circumventing the ban and fear that isolation may negatively affect the mental health of certain groups of children, such as LGBTQ+, neurodivergent children, and children from rural areas.

(max)