Social media ban for U16s isn't the power move you think it is without this major change

Social media ban for U16s isn't the power move you think it is without this major changeAs countries across the globe consider a social media ban for their under-16 citizens, I'd argue that a blanket ban is counterproductive without one major change that could keep kids offline for goodNewsopinionLauren Gordon Emerging Audiences Editor16:16, 15 Apr 2026View 2 ImagesThe UK government has since launched a consultation on banning social media for under-16sCountries around the world are considering following in Australia’s footsteps by trialling a social media ban for under-16s. The ban came into place for Australian teenagers in December and platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, and X must take "reasonable steps" to restrict access or face a fine.‌The UK government has since launched a consultation on banning social media for under-16s, while Denmark, Greece, Spain and Ireland have considered similar bans: Spain and Ireland for under-16s, Denmark and Greece for under-15s and Austria for under-14s.‌Greece’s social media ban for under-15s will come into place on January 1, 2027, with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis stating that “long hours in front of screens does not allow their minds to rest”.‌Meanwhile, the UK government is set to trial the ban alongside its consultation. The test will see 300 teens have their social apps disabled entirely, blocked overnight or capped to one hour's use. According to the BBC, Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said it was about "testing different options in the real world", and hopes the pilots will help to inform whether an Australian-style ban would work for UK teens.View 2 ImagesGreece’s social media ban for under-15s will come into place on January 1, 2027(Image: 2026 Anna Barclay)READ MORE: Lauren Cowell on the heartbreaking reason she wants social media law change READ MORE: Dad of teen who took own life issues plea amid Australia social media ban fearsExperts have opposed the b...