NORWAY TO BAN SOCIAL MEDIA FOR UNDER-16s, TARGETS TECH FIRMS WITH AGE VERIFICATION LAW
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Agency Report
Norway has announced plans to introduce legislation this year banning children under the age of 16 from using social media platforms, as part of efforts to protect young users online.
Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said the move is aimed at preserving childhood and reducing the growing influence of digital platforms on children’s daily lives.
“We are introducing this legislation because we want a childhood where children get to be children. Play, friendships, and everyday life must not be taken over by algorithms and screens,” he said.
The proposed law will place responsibility on technology companies to verify users’ ages and ensure compliance, rather than leaving the burden on children.
Minister of Digitalisation and Public Governance, Karianne Tung, stressed that platforms must enforce the rules from the outset.
“Children cannot be left with the responsibility for staying away from platforms they are not allowed to use. That responsibility rests with the companies providing these services,” she said.
Norway joins a growing list of countries tightening online protections for minors. Nations such as France, Spain, and Denmark have announced similar plans to set a digital age of consent, while Australia and Türkiye have already implemented restrictions.
The European Commission has also signalled stronger action, recently unveiling an age-verification app expected to be rolled out across Europe.
The Norwegian government noted that earlier measures, including national screen-time guidelines and recommendations for mobile-free schools, have already contributed to a decline in children’s use of smartphones and social media.
Officials say the proposed legislation is part of a broader push to create a safer and more balanced digital environment for children and adolescents.
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