France's Constitutional Council Overturns Social Media Ban for Minors Under 15

France's Constitutional Council has annulled a law that would have banned children under the age of 15 from using social media. The court ruled that the prohibition constituted a disproportionate restriction on freedom of expression and communication. Additionally, the council found that the law's requirement for age verification for all users infringed upon the right to privacy because it failed to specify the conditions and limits of how such data would be handled.

The law was approved by parliament in July and was intended to take effect on September 1. It would have required tech platforms to close existing accounts for under 15s within four months. The ruling follows a challenge brought by left wing lawmakers, including members of the Socialists, Greens, and France Insumise.

President Emmanuel Macron has expressed a strong desire to implement these protections. Following the ruling, the Élysée announced that Macron has instructed Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu to draft a new, legally sound text that aligns with the court's decision and the European legal framework. The presidency stated that Macron remains determined to implement the reform by spring 2027, coinciding with the next presidential election.

This legal battle occurs amid a global trend toward restricting youth social media access. Australia has already implemented a ban for under 16s, while countries such as Indonesia and Malaysia have introduced similar restrictions. The European Commission has also indicated a need for age appropriate restrictions. However, some reports note that the Australian ban has been easy to circumvent, with a high percentage of minors continuing to use social media.