French Report Sounds Alarm on Social Media's Impact on Youth, Recommends Ban for Under-15s

French Report Calls for Ban on Social Media for Under-15s Amid TikTok Concerns A parliamentary commission in France has recommended banning social media for children under 15 and imposing an overnight "digital curfew" for teenagers aged 15 to 18, citing the psychological effects of short video-sharing platform TikTok. The six-month inquiry, led by Laure Miller and Arthure Delaporte, concluded that TikTok knowingly exposes minors to toxic content. The commission's report, released in March, highlighted the addictive nature of social media platforms like TikTok, which have become increasingly popular among young people. "We must force TikTok to rethink its model," said Miller, lead author of the report. Delaporte added, "TikTok is not just a platform; it's a way of life for many young people." The inquiry heard testimony from teenagers and families affected by social media use. One parent, who wished to remain anonymous, shared her concerns about her 13-year-old daughter's TikTok addiction: "She spends hours on the app every day, comparing herself to others and feeling anxious about not being popular enough." The commission also received evidence of cyberbullying, online harassment, and mental health issues linked to social media use. TikTok responded to the report, stating that it categorically rejected the commission's characterization of its platform as "toxic" and "addictive." A spokesperson emphasized the company's efforts to promote digital well-being through features such as screen time tracking and content moderation. However, critics argue that these measures are insufficient. The French government has not yet announced plans to implement the commission's recommendations. However, the report is likely to spark a wider debate about social media regulation in France and beyond. "This report highlights the urgent need for policymakers to take action," said Delaporte. "We cannot continue to ignore the impact of social media on our children's mental health." The French parliamentary commission's findings echo concerns raised by experts worldwide about the effects of social media on young people. In 2020, a study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health found that excessive social media use was linked to increased symptoms of depression and anxiety among teenagers. As the world grapples with the consequences of social media addiction, policymakers are faced with the challenge of balancing freedom of expression with the need to protect vulnerable populations. The French report serves as a reminder of the importance of regulating social media platforms to ensure they prioritize children's well-being over profits. The commission's recommendations have sparked a heated debate in France, with some arguing that a ban on social media for under-15s is too restrictive, while others see it as a necessary measure to protect young people from the dangers of online content. As the discussion continues, one thing is clear: the impact of social media on children's mental health is a pressing concern that requires immediate attention. In related news, several European countries have implemented measures to restrict social media use among minors. In 2020, Germany introduced a law requiring social media companies to verify users' ages and provide age-appropriate content. The UK has also proposed regulations to limit social media advertising to children. The French parliamentary commission's report is a timely reminder of the need for policymakers to work together to address the complex issues surrounding social media use among young people. As Delaporte noted, "We owe it to our children to create a safer online environment." *Reporting by Bbc.*