PARIS (TechGenez) – France is set to prohibit children under 15 from accessing social media platforms and ban mobile phones in high schools starting September 2026, local media reported on Wednesday, reflecting growing public concern over the effects of digital exposure on young people.
President Emmanuel Macron has repeatedly linked social media to rising violence among youth, advocating stricter controls. The measures align France with Australia’s pioneering law, which enforced a ban for under-16s on sites like Facebook, Snapchat, TikTok, and YouTube in December 2025.
The proposals, expected to be formalized in legislation soon, aim to shield minors from online risks including cyberbullying, addiction, and exposure to harmful content.
Policy Details
The social media restriction would require platforms to verify user ages through robust methods, potentially including parental consent or ID checks for those under 15. Violations could face fines up to 4% of global revenue under EU digital rules.
The high school phone ban extends existing primary and middle school prohibitions, mandating devices be powered off or stored during school hours. Exceptions may apply for educational use or emergencies.
Education Minister Pap Ndiaye emphasized: “These steps protect our children’s mental health and focus in learning environments.”
Implementation details, including enforcement mechanisms, are under review by a parliamentary committee.
Government and Presidential Stance
Macron has championed digital regulation, stating in a 2025 address: “Social networks amplify division and violence – we must act decisively for our youth.”
The president praised Australia’s model, which uses age-verification tech and fines non-compliant platforms up to A$50 million.
France’s move follows a 2024 report linking excessive screen time to increased anxiety and aggression in teens, with 40% of 13-15 year-olds reporting daily cyberbullying.
Broader Context
Europe leads digital child protection: The EU’s Digital Services Act mandates risk assessments for minors, while the UK’s Online Safety Act imposes duties of care.
Australia’s ban, the world’s first, faced platform pushback but survived legal challenges, with compliance rates at 95% by January 2026.
Global studies, including WHO’s 2025 report, link heavy social media use to poorer mental health outcomes in adolescents.
France’s measures build on 2018 school phone restrictions and 2023 content moderation laws.
Analysts at Bernstein: “France’s ban adds pressure on platforms, but enforcement challenges remain.”
Challenges
Age verification tech raises privacy concerns, with critics warning of data collection risks.
Platforms argue bans drive underground use, advocating education over prohibition.
Schools face logistical issues storing thousands of phones daily.
Quotes
Macron: “We cannot let algorithms dictate our children’s futures.”
Australian PM Anthony Albanese: “France’s leadership shows global momentum for child protection online.”
Broader Industry Trends
Social media regulation accelerates: 20+ countries considered minor bans in 2025.
Digital wellbeing apps grew 30%, per App Annie.
EU fines for child safety violations topped €2 billion in 2025.
Outlook
- Legislation expected by mid-2026, with rollout September.
- Platforms may introduce “teen modes” to comply.
- Analysts predict 15% drop in under-15 engagement globally by 2028.
- France’s bold step could inspire a wave of international restrictions.
