Denmark passes social media ban for users under 15
Context:
Denmark has announced a ban on social media access for users under the age of 15, joining other nations tightening restrictions on minors' online activities amid growing concerns about the effects of social media on mental health. The ban will not be implemented immediately, as the specifics of enforcement, including an age-verification app, are still under development. While parents may grant access to children aged 13 and older through a process, this initiative aligns Denmark with global trends, highlighted by Australia's impending ban set for December. If successful, Denmark’s approach could reshape the relationship between governments and major tech firms regarding user age verification responsibilities, impacting ongoing debates in other regions, including the U.S., where regulations vary significantly by state.
Dive Deeper:
The Danish government announced the social media ban on November 8, 2025, as part of a broader international movement addressing youth mental health concerns linked to social media usage.
Enforcement details for Denmark's ban remain unclear, but officials are working on an age-verification app designed to assist in monitoring compliance.
Parents in Denmark will have the option to allow access for children as young as 13, contingent on a verification process, signaling a more flexible approach than a complete prohibition.
Australia is set to implement the first national social media ban for minors in December 2025, with severe penalties for non-compliance, including fines for platforms that fail to adhere to the regulations.
In the U.S., various states have introduced their own measures, such as Nebraska's requirement for parental approval for those under 18 to establish social media accounts, leading to ongoing debates about First Amendment rights.
The successful implementation of Denmark's ban could set a precedent, influencing how governments worldwide interact with tech companies regarding age verification responsibilities and the safeguarding of minors online.