Von der Leyen steps up EU child safety crackdown on social media giants

The EU is considering tougher rules on children’s access to social media, as concerns grow over its impact on their mental health. AFP - SAEED KHAN

The European Union is preparing a fresh push to rein in the impact of social media on children, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen signalling that new legislation – including restricting access for younger users – could be proposed within months.

Speaking at a summit on artificial intelligence and children in Copenhagen on Tuesday, von der Leyen said the debate over a minimum age for social media use “can no longer be ignored” as concerns grow about the effects of online platforms on young people’s mental health and wellbeing.