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The nation's controversial move to ban social media access for those under 16 is sparking debate internationally. Politicians, safety advocates, and guardians are watching with great interest to see if this tactic will become a template for countries abroad.

Across Europe Trend

Throughout Europe, a growing chorus of countries are exploring similar restrictions.

• Denmark has stated a restriction on social media for children under fifteen, with the PM declaring that phones and platforms are "stealing our children's childhood". A law is expected to be enacted soon.
• The Norwegian government is planning to implement a minimum age limit of 15, pointing to the need to safeguard children from the "power of the recommendation systems".
• Ireland is developing a digital wallet to confirm the user details of social media users. Officials have suggested that an similar ban remains "a potential tools on the table".
• In Spain, the leader has called on lawmakers to approve a law lifting the legal age for joining social media to 16.
• In France, the leader has threatened a ban for under-15s, and a parliamentary commission has recommended a similar move, potentially involving an overnight "internet blackout" for 15- to 18-year-olds.
• The administration in The Netherlands has urged parents to prevent their youngsters from social media until 15.

At the EU level, the bloc's legislature has passed a advisory resolution calling for a ban for minors without a parent decides otherwise is given. Although it cautions of the "habit-forming" nature of these services, the step does not establish binding law.

"An effective age barrier is a solid starting point," stated a leading MEP supporting the resolution.

The United Kingdom: A Cautious Stance

In the UK, the leadership has remained open to a possible ban, emphasizing that "no measure is off the table" but insisting any policy must be "based on conclusive research".

Previously, support built behind a proposal to impose restrictions on social media use by minors, but it was ultimately weakened. However, the government committed to investigate the topic.

Campaign organizations have raised concerns. A prominent charity founded by the loved ones of a girl who died after encountering disturbing social media material contends that a blanket age ban might not protect children and could result in a "sudden drop-off" of exposure when young people become eligible.

"The Australian ban is a response to the failure of the tech sector to build products and services that are secure and fit for minors," commented a influential online safety campaigner.

The United States: A Fragmented Landscape

Across America, regulation is primarily happening at the regional level against a backdrop of national gridlock.

• Utah demands adult approval for minors to use social media and controls late-night use.
• The state of Florida has signed a bill prohibiting children under fourteen from accessing social media, though it is entangled in court battles.
• The state of Virginia has approved a law limiting under-16s to 60 minutes of social media time per day, with extra use needing a guardian's okay.
• Georgia, Tennessee, and The state of Louisiana have likewise enacted laws mandating adult authorization for minors to set up social media presences.

Despite bipartisan support and calls from certain politicians to mimic Australia's path, a US-wide ban is presently seen as improbable.

Worldwide Outlook

Apart from the West, additional countries are similarly taking action.

• Malaysia intends to prohibit social media for under-16s beginning next year.
• The Brazilian authorities has lifted the minimum age for the platform Instagram to 16.

Yet, international agencies take a more measured tone. A major UN agency has advised that blanket prohibitions carry risks and "might have unintended consequences". The organization points out that social networks can be a "vital connection" for isolated young people and that bans should not be a "excuse" for tech companies to improve safety.

Even as this global discussion unfolds, the policies of Australia and others indicate that policymakers globally are increasingly content to stand by for the industry to act voluntarily.