Under 16 teenagers in Australian has been banned from the use of social media by the Australian Senate. The ban which was approved on Thursday marked a significant step in the country’s efforts to protecting young people online.
According to reports by CNN, the new law pressures tech companies to tighten security measures. Though no compliance deadline has yet to be set by the government.
“The legislation was passed late Thursday, the last sitting day of the year. It was passed after a process where the bill was introduced, debated, and approved within just one week.
“The law requires tech companies to take “reasonable steps” to prevent underage users from accessing social media platforms. Or face hefty fines of up to 50 million Australian Dollars (around $32 million),” CNN stated.
“This is the strictest response globally to the issue, following a pattern of other countries introducing restrictions but stopping short of holding companies accountable for breaches. While the law is expected to apply to platforms like Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Reddit, and X, it could eventually cover more,” the report stated.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese explained that tackling the impact of social media on young people is a concern for “every serious government.”
According to the Albanese, leaders worldwide had expressed support for Australia’s approach.
“We know that social media can be a weapon for bullies. A platform for peer pressure, a driver of anxiety and a vehicle for scammers. And worst of all, a tool for online predators,” the Prime Minister said
While defending the age limit of 16, the Prime Minister argued that young people at this age are better equipped to spot “the fakes and the danger” online.
“Meanwhile, before becoming law, the Bill received support from most members of Australia’s main opposition party, the Liberal Party. Senator Maria Kovacic called it a “pivotal moment in our country.” Stating, “We have drawn a line in the sand. The enormous power of big tech can no longer remain unchecked in Australia,” CNN reported.
The approval notwithstanding, the legislation faced strong opposition from some independents and smaller parties, including Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young. She criticized the major parties for trying to “deceive” Australian parents, according to CNN.
“This is a disaster unfolding before our eyes.”
“You couldn’t make this stuff up. The Prime Minister says he’s worried about social media. The leader of the opposition says, ‘Let’s ban it,’” Hanson-Young said.
The Senator, therefore, warned that the approach was more about political posturing than real solutions. She argued that it would push young people into further isolation.
She believes that instead of forcing young people off social media, the focus should be on making it safer for everyone.
“We need to make social media safer for everybody,” Hanson-Young said.
source: CNN
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