Social media restrictions and children

Children need digital spaces that are safe and developmentally appropriate, not simply restricted.

Governments worldwide are debating whether limiting access to social media can protect children from online risks. Australia has taken one of the strongest steps to restrict social media for children under 16 by proposing mandatory age verification and fines for non-compliant platforms. Likewise, the Netherlands and Malaysia are considering similar measures. These moves have sparked global discussions about whether age-based rules are practical and effective in improving online safety. The debate is especially important for countries like Nepal, where access to devices differs widely, and enforcement remains difficult.