Norway plans ban on social media use for children under 16

Norway plans ban on social media use for children under 16
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The Norwegian government is preparing legislation that would ban children under the age of 16 from using social media, as part of a wider effort to strengthen online child protection.

According to official statements and Reuters reporting, the proposal will require technology companies to implement strict age-verification systems to prevent underage users from accessing platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube, and X.

Norway’s Prime Minister said the measure is intended to ensure that childhood is not dominated by digital platforms and algorithm-driven content, emphasizing the need for children to experience “play, friendships, and everyday life” without excessive screen exposure.

The government plans to submit the bill to parliament by the end of 2026. Officials say the policy is part of broader European efforts to regulate children’s access to social media, following similar initiatives in countries such as Australia.

Norway has not yet specified which platforms would be covered in detail, and the proposal is still under legislative review.