British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced plans to ban children under the age of 16 from using social media, saying the platforms are affecting children’s mental health and exposing them to harmful content.
Starmer said the proposed law will block access to platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, YouTube and X for under-16 users, but messaging services like WhatsApp will not be included.
He said the aim is to protect children from addictive content and online risks, adding that the government hopes to pass the law by December, with enforcement expected next spring.
The UK government also plans to introduce wider safety measures targeting gaming and live streaming platforms, where strangers can interact with children. It is also considering restrictions such as night-time limits and controls on endless scrolling for teenagers under 18.
The proposal follows consultations involving more than 100,000 responses, with most parents supporting stricter rules on children’s social media use.
Officials said similar steps have already been taken in countries like Australia and Indonesia, which have introduced or are enforcing age limits on social media access for minors.
The government also warned tech companies, including Apple and Google, to improve safety features that prevent children from sharing or accessing explicit content, or face possible legislation.
Starmer said the move is part of broader efforts to make online spaces safer for children and to reduce risks linked to abuse, exploitation and harmful online interactions.