“Big tech companies have had a free hand in children’s rooms for too long. It’s time to change that,” said Minister for Digitization Caroline Stage. She added that Denmark wants to set an example for other European countries and strengthen the so-called digital well-being of children.
According to the proposal, the law would allow an exception for children from the age of 13, if the parents agree and the relevant authority approves it. The government has not yet specified which specific platforms the ban would cover or how the age of users should be verified.
The Ministry of Digitization stated in the justification that the frequent use of social networks negatively affects sleep, concentration and relationships between children. “No parent can do it alone. We need common rules,” the statement said.
If the law passes the parliament, it will be one of the strictest measures of its kind in Europe. Australia has already taken a similar step, where from next month, people under the age of 16 may not use social networks. The local authorities can fine operators up to tens of millions of dollars if they violate the age restriction.
