In a significant push for digital safety, French President Emmanuel Macron has formally requested European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to advance a "European legislative text" that would prohibit social media use for children under the age of 15.
The Call for Harmonization
In a letter dated August 29, Macron emphasized that it is now "essential to move further" by harmonizing regulations across the European Union. The proposed ban is framed as a necessary measure for the "protection of all children in the Union," aiming to create a unified standard for digital engagement among minors.
Domestic Setbacks and Future Strategy
The appeal to Brussels follows a recent legal hurdle in France. In August, the French Constitutional Council rejected a domestic proposal intended to enforce a similar ban for those under 15. The council's decision has prompted the French presidency to seek a broader, more resilient legislative route.
Despite this setback, Macron reiterated his commitment to the initiative. He expressed hope that a path forward would be identified in the coming months through a "revised legislative regulation" at the national level. This new iteration is intended to align with both EU law and the French Constitution, while simultaneously pushing for a broader European mandate.
