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'Major step forward': French lawmakers approve social media ban for children under 15
(www.france24.com)
They do not care about kids.
-Access to social media is "crucial for supporting youthful political engagement in contemporary democracy", allowing young people to express their political views and be exposed to other people's views, "to experiment with their political voice and to hone it through interaction with others." (https://phys.org/news/2025-01-explores-social-media-tool-young.html)
" “We need to prosecute the perpetrators of online harm and the tech companies that allow horrible things – sextortion, image-based abuse,” [Candice Odgers] says. “It’s horrific for women and for girls – they are 80% to 90% of the victims and tech company owners and developers are 90% male, so we’ve got this fundamental problem in terms of protecting women and girls online.” " / " “The more we make it a forbidden place to spend time, the less likely they are going to tell us what’s happening in those spaces, the less likely they will be to report harms, the less likely we will be to help them...” " / " “For some people, it’s a support community. Tech isn’t really like tobacco. Its effects go in all directions.” " / "Odgers’ response to concerns about adolescents’ time and energy being wasted by addictive algorithms is that governments should be building better communities and physical spaces for children to play and learn; this could be funded, she says, “with a big old tax on tech”. " (https://www.theguardian.com/society/2026/jul/16/psychologist-candice-odgers-kids-tech-mental-health-social-media-bans)
"For LGBTQ+ youth, foster kids, and those stuck in unsupportive home environments, [and other young people dealing with abuse/depression/alienation/isolation/etc.] social media is often the only place to find community, explore their identity, or access life-saving resources. Forcibly removing young people isolates those who need connection the most" (https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2026/06/how-and-why-fight-back-against-social-media-bans)
-We should ban harmful algorithms - the ones that "are implemented, not with the goal to make us happy or healthy, but to keep us engaged and maybe sell us something" - instead of completely prevent access to platforms. (https://www.fastcompany.com/91136834/new-york-social-media-algorithm-ban)
-We need to have better moderation of harmful content, abuse, hate, harassment, etc., and have a support system to help young people deal with issues they encounter.
"Social media can foster social connections, offer support and community, and provide access to valuable information and resources that help young people gain additional emotional support.." / "Young people can take several practical steps to build resilience and maintain good mental health in the age of social media. It's crucial to promote a balanced approach, empowering them to use these tools in ways that support their wellbeing and minimise potential harm." / "For parents, carers and educators open communication, ongoing education, and a focus on building digital literacy are key to navigating this ever-changing landscape. It’s important to equip children and young people with the skills to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly. This includes teaching them about online safety, critical thinking skills, and how to manage their screen time and social media use." / "Adults can model healthy coping mechanisms and positive mental health practices. This can involve demonstrating self-care, setting boundaries with technology, and talking openly about their own day to day life.." / "In simple terms, listening is golden. It's incredibly powerful, especially for young people. In my 14+ years as a counsellor, I've seen how impactful it is to offer a safe space where children and young people feel truly heard and understood, without judgment. Reducing stigma is equally important, as it encourages young people to seek help without shame and view mental health fluidly. Showing that with the right support and care poor mental health can get better." (https://mhfaengland.org/mhfa-centre/blog/Social-media-and-young-people-Understanding-the-impact-and-offering-support/)