Denmark Moves Toward Major Social Media Ban for Children Under 15

Denmark plans a new social media ban for children under 15. The proposal follows Australia’s recent enforcement of a similar rule for users under 16. Danish officials say the goal is to protect young people from harm online. The law could take effect in mid-2026 if approved.

The move comes as Denmark reports that most children under 13 already use social media. Officials say current safeguards do not work well. They believe stronger age checks are needed to keep kids safe.

Denmark Social Media Ban Could Become Europe’s Toughest Rule

The planned Denmark social media ban would be the strongest in the European Union. According to AP News, the government has backing from both coalition and opposition parties. This support makes passage likely next year.

The proposal blocks all major platforms for users under 15. This includes Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube, and more. Some parents may get an option to allow access at age 13. Details are still under review.

Danish data shows that 98 percent of children under 13 already have at least one profile. Many sign up long before they understand the risks. Officials say the rules now are too easy to bypass.

Digital Affairs Minister Caroline Stage said the country needs digital “bouncers” to verify users. She compared it to checking ages at nightclubs. She said platforms have not done enough on their own.

Australia has set fines of up to 50 million Australian dollars for platforms that break its new rule. Denmark may adopt similar penalties. The government also plans a new age certificate app to verify identity.

How the New Age Verification System Would Work

The government says a digital evidence app will launch next spring. It will show an age certificate for online platforms. This tool will likely support the Denmark social media ban once laws pass.

The EU already requires platforms to protect minors under the Digital Services Act. But enforcement is hard. It needs strong cooperation between countries and large resources. Authorities say gaps remain.

Some students worry they will lose online friends. Others say the rules may stop cyberbullying and keep graphic content away from kids. Parents have mixed views but many agree the risks are growing.

Experts warn that a full ban may limit children’s digital rights. They say social media now plays a role in civic life. They also note that bans do not always stop kids from accessing apps through other means.

More countries are considering similar steps. Malaysia is set to ban platforms for users under 16 next year. Norway is studying new restrictions. China already limits gaming and smartphone time for minors.

Denmark’s new plan could reshape online access for young people. The Denmark social media ban will be watched closely across Europe as debate continues.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the Denmark social media ban?

It is a plan to block social media access for users under 15. The law may allow parents to approve access from age 13. It could start in 2026 if passed.

Q2: Why is Denmark proposing this?

Officials say current rules fail to protect children. Most kids under 13 already use social media. The government wants stronger age checks.

Q3: Which platforms would be affected?

Major apps like Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, X, and Facebook would be included. The final list is still being reviewed. Enforcement rules will be set next year.

Q4: How will age verification work?

The government plans a digital evidence app. It will display an age certificate for users. This will help platforms confirm identity.

Q5: Are other countries doing the same?

Australia already has a ban for users under 16. Malaysia and Norway are preparing new rules. China limits online time for minors.