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The nation's controversial move to ban social platforms access for young people below 16 is sending ripples internationally. Politicians, campaigners, and parents are observing with great interest to see if this strategy will inspire imitation for the rest of the world.

Across Europe Movement

Throughout Europe, a increasing chorus of states are exploring comparable restrictions.

• Denmark has stated a restriction on social media for children under fifteen, with the prime minister stating that smartphones and platforms are "taking away our youngsters' childhood". The policy is expected to be passed soon.
• Norway is set to introduce a age restriction of 15, citing the need to safeguard the young from the "manipulative force of the AI".
• Ireland is developing a digital ID system to verify the identity and age of social media users. Authorities have stated that an Australia-style ban is "one of the measures on the table".
• In Spain, the president has called on the legislature to approve a law lifting the legal age for accessing social media to 16.
• In The French government, the leader has floated the idea of a ban for under-15s, and a government panel has recommended a related step, potentially involving an overnight "screen time restriction" for 15- to 18-year-olds.
• The authorities in The Dutch government has recommended families to prevent their kids from social media before 15.

Across the European Union, the EU parliament has adopted a non-binding statement demanding a ban for under-16s unless parental consent is given. Although it highlights of the "habit-forming" quality of these services, the move does not establish enforceable legislation.

"A strong age restriction is a useful foundation," stated one MEP driving the initiative.

The UK: An Evidence-Based Eye

For the United Kingdom, the administration has not ruled out a potential ban, arguing that "no option is being dismissed" but maintaining any policy must be "grounded in conclusive evidence".

Earlier, momentum gathered behind a proposal to enact limits on social media use by minors, but it was eventually watered down. However, the administration pledged to further research the topic.

Charities have expressed warnings. An organization established by the family of a teenager who was lost after encountering disturbing online content argues that a blanket age ban might not make platforms safer and could result in a "dangerous transition" of risk when users reach the legal age.

"This ban is a response to the inability of the social media companies to create products and services that are secure and age appropriate for young users," said a influential child protection advocate.

The US: A Decentralized Approach

Stateside, legislation is mostly happening at the regional level against a backdrop of national gridlock.

• The state of Utah demands parental consent for minors to use social media and restricts nighttime use.
• The state of Florida has passed a bill prohibiting children under fourteen from accessing social media, though it is subject to constitutional disputes.
• Virginia has passed a law limiting under-16s to one hour of social media access per day, with additional use dependent on adult consent.
• The state of Georgia, Tennessee, and The state of Louisiana have likewise introduced bills mandating guardian approval for under-16s to open social media accounts.

Even with widespread concern and suggestions from various figures to copy Australia's lead, a federal ban is currently seen as a distant prospect.

Worldwide Perspectives

Beyond Europe and the US, further nations are also exploring options.

• Malaysia intends to ban social media for those under sixteen starting from next year.
• Brazil has increased the minimum age for one major platform to 16.

But, world bodies take a more cautious position. The UN children's agency has cautioned that blanket prohibitions have downsides and "could backfire". The body highlights that online platforms can be a "lifeline" for marginalized children and that government action should not be a "substitute" for social media firms to invest in user protection.

Even as this global discussion evolves, the policies of the Australian government and several other countries indicate that states internationally are no longer willing to stand by for platforms to act voluntarily.