Global Social Media Bans for Kids Are Expanding: Vietnam Joins a Growing List of Countries Restricting Young Users
The global debate over social media safety for children is accelerating, with more governments introducing laws and proposals aimed at limiting young users’ access to popular platforms. The latest country to join the conversation is Vietnam, but its proposal stands out from the rest. Instead of completely banning children from social media, Vietnam plans to allow users under 16 to keep their accounts while restricting their ability to post, comment, react, or actively engage with content. The proposal reflects a broader international movement focused on protecting minors from the potential risks associated with digital platforms. Here’s everything you need to know about Vietnam’s proposal and the growing list of countries tightening social media regulations for children. Vietnam Proposes a Different Approach to Child Social Media Safety Vietnam’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has introduced a draft decree designed to create a safer online environment for children rather than removing them from social media entirely. Under the proposal: Vietnam’s Deputy Culture Minister, Phan Tam, emphasized that the objective is not to isolate children from digital platforms but to ensure they experience a safer online environment. The proposal has not yet become law and may still undergo revisions before approval. Gaming Restrictions Are Also Under Consideration Vietnam is also reviewing stricter rules for online gaming. The proposal would limit gamers under 16 to 60 minutes per game each day, while requiring parental registration similar to social media accounts. The move reflects growing concerns over excessive screen time, online addiction, and children’s digital well-being. Why Governments Are Restricting Social Media for Children Countries worldwide are becoming increasingly concerned about the impact of social media on teenagers and younger users. Lawmakers point to several risks, including: Supporters argue that stronger regulation can help protect children while encouraging healthier digital habits. However, critics warn that mandatory age verification systems may create privacy concerns and increase government oversight of online activity. Human rights organizations and digital rights advocates have also questioned whether blanket restrictions will effectively solve these challenges. Countries Introducing Social Media Restrictions for Minors Governments across Europe, Asia, North America, and Oceania are pursuing stricter digital safety laws. Australia Australia became the first country to implement a nationwide social media ban for children under 16. The restrictions cover platforms including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, X, Threads, Reddit, Twitch, Kick, and YouTube. Companies that fail to enforce the rules face penalties of up to AUD $49.5 million. France France recently approved legislation banning social media access for users under 15. The law is also expanding restrictions on mobile phone use in schools, reinforcing its child online safety strategy. Canada Canada has proposed legislation prohibiting children under 16 from accessing social media unless platforms can prove they provide adequate protections for young users. United Kingdom The UK plans to prohibit social media access for children under 16 while also introducing safeguards for AI-powered companion chatbots. Messaging services such as WhatsApp and Signal are expected to remain exempt. Other Countries Considering Restrictions Several additional countries are actively developing or reviewing similar policies: Although implementation timelines differ, the overall trend signals increasing government involvement in child online protection. What This Means for Social Media Companies Technology companies including Meta, TikTok, Snap, Google (YouTube), and other platform operators are facing growing pressure to strengthen age verification, parental controls, and child safety systems. Future compliance may require: These requirements could reshape how platforms onboard and manage younger users worldwide. The Future of Child Online Safety The conversation around youth social media regulation is no longer limited to one region. Governments across the globe are introducing legislation that prioritizes digital wellness while balancing privacy, parental rights, and freedom of expression. Vietnam’s proposal introduces a middle-ground model by limiting children’s online interactions instead of completely removing access. Whether this balanced approach becomes a global blueprint remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: online child safety has become a top policy priority worldwide. As lawmakers continue refining digital regulations, technology companies, parents, educators, and policymakers will all play a critical role in shaping a safer internet for the next generation. The Source of this news is Tech Crunch.