New Zealand is taking a bold leap to protect its youth with a proposal to ban social media for anyone under 16. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced on Sunday that this initiative will join the government’s work program, with Education Minister Erica Stanford leading the development of its implementation plan.
Championed by National Party MP Catherine Wedd, the proposed "My Social Media Age-Appropriate Users Bill" seeks to shield young people from bullying, exposure to inappropriate content, and social media addiction. Under the plan, platforms would need to take "all reasonable steps" to verify that users are at least 16, with financial penalties looming for non-compliance.
Modeled on similar legislation in Australia, this proposal aims to fill a crucial gap in protecting digital natives. As Luxon explained, "It's not a political issue. It's actually a New Zealand issue," calling for bipartisan support to ensure a safer online space for everyone.
In our fast-paced digital world where smartphones are almost an extension of our hands, this initiative is sparking conversations about digital safety and responsibility. Stay tuned as New Zealand navigates these uncharted waters – a move that could inspire global trends in youth protection! 🚀📱
Reference(s):
New Zealand advances proposal to ban social media access for under-16s
cgtn.com
