French Assembly Approves Bill To Ban Social Media For Under-15s, Macron Pushes September Start

Last Updated:January 27, 2026, 09:26 IST

Macron said he had asked the government to activate an accelerated legislative procedure to ensure the law is implemented as early as possible.

French President Emmanuel Macron (AP)

France’s National Assembly backed legislation to ban children under the age of 15 from accessing social media platforms, a major step in the country’s push to curb online bullying, screen addiction and mental health risks among minors. Lawmakers voted 116–23 in favour of the bill, which would prohibit under-15s from using social networks as well as “social networking functionalities" embedded within broader digital platforms. The legislation now moves to the Senate before returning to the lower house for a final vote.

Why Is Macron Pushing For A September Deadline?

France’s President Emmanuel Macron welcomed the vote, calling it a “major step" and urging swift passage so the ban can take effect by the start of the next academic year in September.

“Banning social media for those under 15: that’s what scientists are advocating, that’s what the French people are overwhelmingly demanding," Macron said in a post on social media, adding, “Our children’s brains are not for sale… Their dreams cannot be dictated by algorithms."

Macron said he had asked the government to activate an accelerated legislative procedure to ensure the law is implemented as early as possible. He also framed the move as part of a broader effort to protect young people from the influence of powerful technology platforms.

“Because we do not want an anxious generation but a generation that believes in France, the Republic and its values," he said, adding that France would become the first country in Europe to formally commit to such a ban.

What’s Driving France’s Tough Stance On Social Media?

The proposed law reflects growing political and public concern over the impact of social media on minors. Macron has repeatedly linked excessive screen use and online platforms to rising violence and anxiety among young people and has urged France to follow Australia, which introduced a world-first ban on social media for under-16s in December.

“With this law, we are setting a clear boundary in society and saying social media is not harmless," centrist lawmaker Laure Miller told parliament, adding, “Our children are reading less, sleeping less and comparing themselves more. This is a battle for free minds."

How Will Social Media Ban Actually Be Enforced?

The French legislation would require platforms to enforce age limits through verification mechanisms compliant with European Union law, a challenge that has complicated enforcement efforts elsewhere. Australia has acknowledged its rollout has been uneven, with teenagers finding ways around restrictions. The bill also extends France’s existing ban on smartphones in junior and middle schools to include high schools.

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