Children's Rights Organizations Oppose Blanket Social Media Ban for Under-16s

Fiona Jennings, ISPCC head of policy, and Leo E Sharkey offer differing views on social media access for children. Jennings, representing over 140 European children’s rights organizations including the ISPCC, argues against a blanket ban on social media for under-16s. She states such a ban is a superficial gesture that shifts responsibility to parents and children, failing to address technology companies’ role in designing platforms that prioritize engagement over young people’s well-being.

On June 14th, these organizations sent an evidence-based letter to the European Commission, asserting it is unfair to make children rectify problems embedded in platform design. They advocate for a "safety by design" standard for tech companies, incorporating robust privacy and age verification, alongside education for parents and young people. They warn a ban could lead children to less regulated, more dangerous sites.

Conversely, Leo E Sharkey proposes a radical approach: no screen time until age 14 and no social media until 16. He cites research from the World Health Organisation and JAMA Pediatrics, linking excessive screen time to reduced attention spans, impaired sleep, hindered physical development, and dulled creativity in children. Sharkey believes a significant developmental gap will emerge between children with and without early screen exposure, advocating for legal intervention based on medical, scientific, and psychological evidence.