Students look at their phones in Melbourne on 28 November 2024 as Australia looks to ban children under 16 from social media with claims social media platforms have been tarnished by cyberbullying, the spread of illegal content, and election-meddling claims. Australia is among the vanguard of nations trying to clean up social media, and the age limit legislation will make it among the world's strictest measures aimed at children. William WEST / AFP
WORLD

Bill bans social media for under-16s

Agence France-Presse

OSLO, Norway (AFP) — Norway said Friday it will present a bill this year making it the latest country seeking to ban social networks for under 16s, adding that technology companies will be responsible for verifying the age of its users.

“We are introducing this legislation because we want a childhood where children get to be children. Play, friendships, and everyday life must not be taken over by algorithms and screens,” Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store said in a statement.