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The nation's controversial action to prohibit social platforms access for young people below 16 is sending ripples around the globe. Lawmakers, child protection groups, and guardians are observing with great interest to see if this approach will set a precedent for countries abroad.

The European Trend

Throughout Europe, a rising chorus of states are considering parallel measures.

• The Danish government plans a restriction on social media for under-15s, with the PM arguing that mobile devices and apps are "stealing our youngsters' innocence". A law may be formalized in the coming year.
• Norway is preparing to introduce a access barrier of 15, pointing to the need to shield young people from the "influence of the AI".
• The Irish government is working on a digital wallet to verify the identity and age of social media participants. Authorities have indicated that an Australia-style ban is "an measures under consideration".
• In Spain, the prime minister has urged lawmakers to enact a law increasing the minimum age for accessing social media to 16.
• In The French government, the leader has proposed a ban for children below 15, and a parliamentary commission has suggested a related step, alongside an overnight "internet blackout" for 15- to 18-year-olds.
• The authorities in The Dutch government has advised parents to prevent their kids from social media before 15.

Across the European Union, the bloc's legislature has approved a advisory motion calling for a ban for under-16s except if a parent decides otherwise is provided. Although it highlights of the "addictive" design of these platforms, the resolution does not establish mandatory rules.

"A clear age limit is a good first step," stated one parliamentarian supporting the resolution.

The United Kingdom: An Evidence-Based Eye

For the United Kingdom, the leadership has remained open to a possible ban, arguing that "nothing is being dismissed" but insisting any decision must be "supported by strong research".

Previously, support grew behind a legislative effort to introduce controls on social media use by minors, but it was in the end modified. However, the government vowed to conduct more studies the issue.

Advocacy groups have voiced apprehensions. An organization established by the loved ones of a young person who was lost after viewing disturbing social media material argues that a strict age ban may not improve online safety and could lead to a "sudden drop-off" of risk when users reach the legal age.

"The Australian ban is a reaction to the refusal of the Silicon Valley to create products and services that are safe and fit for young users," stated a prominent peer.

The United States: A Fragmented Picture

Stateside, action is largely unfolding at the state level amid national stalemate.

• Utah demands adult approval for under-18s to use social media and controls late-night use.
• Florida has enacted a bill banning under-14s from accessing social media, though it is subject to court battles.
• Virginia has passed a regulation restricting under-16s to one hour of social media time per day, with additional access needing parental permission.
• Georgia, The state of Tennessee, and Louisiana have likewise enacted laws mandating parental consent for minors to set up social media accounts.

Even with bipartisan support and proposals from various individuals to mimic Australia's path, a nationwide ban is presently seen as a distant prospect.

Worldwide Perspectives

Apart from Europe and the US, further nations are likewise considering moves.

• The Malaysian government plans to prohibit social media for under-16s starting from next year.
• The Brazilian authorities has raised the access age for Instagram to 16.

But, international agencies adopt a more cautious tone. A major UN agency has advised that blanket prohibitions carry risks and "could have unintended consequences". The agency highlights that online platforms can be a "critical link" for marginalized youth and that bans should not be a "replacement" for tech companies to invest in child safeguards.

As this global conversation evolves, the actions of Australia and its followers demonstrate that governments internationally are no longer content to wait for tech companies to act voluntarily.