UK Eyes Landmark Under-16 Social Media Ban in Major Child Safety Push

The United Kingdom is preparing to introduce one of the world's strictest social media regulations for children, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer expected to announce sweeping measures aimed at protecting young users from harmful online content and excessive screen time.

The proposed policy could go even further than the restrictions introduced in Australia , which has emerged as a global leader in regulating children's access to social media platforms. If implemented, the UK measures would mark a major shift in how governments tackle concerns over online safety and the impact of digital platforms on young people.

According to reports, the plan could include a ban on social media access for children under the age of 16 , affecting major platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, X, YouTube, Snapchat, Threads, Twitch, Kick and Reddit . The government is also reportedly considering restrictions on certain chatbot services, features within gaming applications and late-night usage limits designed to curb excessive scrolling among teenagers.

Describing online child protection as one of the defining challenges of the modern age, Starmer said governments must decide whether to stand with families concerned about the effects of social media or maintain a status quo that many believe is failing children.

The move comes amid a growing international push for tighter digital regulations. Countries including Canada, Brazil and Indonesia have already introduced or proposed age-based online restrictions, while France, Spain, Denmark, Thailand and South Korea are examining similar measures.

The government's decision follows a large public consultation that received around 116,000 responses from parents, children, educators and industry representatives. Officials say the overwhelming majority of participants supported stronger protections for minors online.

UK Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said that while social media restrictions alone are not a complete solution, they can play an important role in reducing risks faced by young users. However, critics have questioned whether outright bans will be effective, arguing that children may simply migrate to less regulated corners of the internet.

Despite the debate, the proposed policy highlights a broader global trend toward greater regulation of technology platforms. If approved, the UK's new rules could become a benchmark for future online safety legislation , influencing how governments worldwide approach child protection in the digital age.