UK government proposes ban on social media for users under 16
Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced plans to prohibit children under 16 from accessing major social-media platforms, with legislation expected by late December and enforcement targeted for early 2027.
London – The United Kingdom will introduce legislation that bars anyone under 16 from using major social-media apps such as Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and X. The proposal also seeks to block access to certain “harmful functions,” including livestreaming and communication with strangers, and to extend restrictions to gaming sites. Messaging services like WhatsApp would remain available.
The draft law would place responsibility on technology firms to prevent under-age usage, with non-compliance potentially resulting in substantial fines. Starmer said he hopes Parliament will pass the measures by the end of December so they can take effect in the spring of 2027.
"We don't say: 'Oh, look, a teenager managed to get a drink somehow, so let's not bother banning drinks from children.' That would be utterly ridiculous!" – Prime Minister Keir Starmer
The United Kingdom joins a growing list of countries considering similar restrictions; Australia enacted a comparable ban in December 2025, though enforcement challenges have been reported. The U.S. Embassy in London expressed concerns about the practicality of age-gating and emphasized the role of parents as the primary safeguard for children.
Polling cited by the government indicates strong parental support for the ban. A recent U.S. court ruling holding Meta and YouTube liable for addictive products could influence future legal actions against social-media companies.
In Ireland, the town of Greystones has implemented a voluntary community program that delays smartphone use for children until middle school, pairing parental pledges with alternative activities. Local educators report reduced anxiety and improved focus among students participating in the initiative.