European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has indicated that the European Union may introduce stricter social media age rules as early as this summer. The proposed measures could include raising the minimum age for social media access across the bloc. The move aims to strengthen child safety online amid growing concerns over digital platform risks.
Von der Leyen said the EU is considering a “social media delay” to give children more time to develop resilience during early adolescence. She noted that a panel of experts is currently reviewing child protection policies online. Depending on the findings, the European Commission could present a legal proposal within months.
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The EU is reportedly looking at international examples, including Australia, which has already set a minimum social media age of 16. Several European countries, including France, have also pushed for stricter age limits or an EU-wide framework. The initiative reflects broader efforts to regulate digital platforms under evolving online safety standards.
The proposal would be linked to enforcement mechanisms such as reliable age verification systems. The Commission has already introduced an EU age-verification app, though it has faced criticism over security concerns. Despite this, von der Leyen said the system meets regulatory requirements under the Digital Services Act. Tech companies would also be required to design safer platforms for younger users.
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The discussion highlights growing global pressure to regulate children’s access to social media. EU policymakers argue that stronger protections are needed during formative years of development. If adopted, the rules could significantly reshape how social media platforms operate across Europe.