EU Chief Ursula von der Leyen Calls for Social Media Change Amid Harmful Content Survey
EU chief Ursula von der Leyen advocates for changes to children's social media access after a survey revealed exposure to harmful content. An expert panel will provide recommendations on July 13, as the EU considers a ban similar to those in Australia and Britain.
EU chief Ursula von der Leyen has declared it «time for change» regarding children's social media access, following a new survey revealing their exposure to online violence, hate speech, and other harmful content.
After Australia and Britain banned social media for children under 16, the 27-nation EU is considering similar measures. Von der Leyen tasked an expert panel, including medical professionals and parents' representatives, to study actions for protecting minors online. The panel will deliver its recommendations on July 13.
The European Commission's survey highlighted «excessive» screen and social media use by teenagers aged 13 to 18. Nearly one in three teenagers reported feeling stressed, sad, or socially excluded due to social media. A quarter encountered hate speech, and almost as many saw content promoting specific body standards.
Irish Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Tánaiste Simon Harris expressed preference for an EU-level social media ban for children, with Martin hoping for enforcement across member states, and Harris reiterating support for a Europe-wide approach.