EU Social Media Limits for Children Planned After Summer

The European Commission is preparing new legislation that could reshape how children access social media across the European Union. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen confirmed that a proposal will be presented after the summer, signaling a coordinated EU approach that could replace the patchwork of national policies emerging across member states.

If adopted, the legislation could push countries that have delayed introducing their own restrictions to align with a single European framework.

European Commission Wants Stronger Protection for Children

Speaking in Brussels, Ursula von der Leyen said children need more opportunities to grow without constant influence from social media algorithms.

She argued that young people should have time to play, develop friendships, learn from mistakes, and build their own identities before online platforms begin shaping their interests and behavior.

According to von der Leyen, the debate is no longer simply about whether children should use social media. Instead, policymakers are increasingly asking when social media platforms should be allowed to engage with children.

EU-Wide Rules Could Replace National Approaches

Several European countries have already introduced or proposed measures that raise the minimum age for using social media or strengthen protections for younger users. These efforts follow Australia’s decision to introduce restrictions for users under the age of 16 in late 2025.

Countries including Greece, Austria, Poland, Lithuania, Slovenia, and the United Kingdom have all taken steps to tighten their national rules surrounding children’s access to social platforms.

However, not every government has moved independently.

Ireland and Denmark Favored a Common European Framework

Ireland has previously stated that it prefers a coordinated EU-wide solution rather than creating its own legislation. The Irish government argued that a common framework would be easier to supervise and enforce across global social media companies.

Denmark has taken a similar position. While it has explored national measures, Danish officials have also questioned whether a unified European system would provide stronger oversight and more consistent enforcement throughout the EU.

Proposal Expected After the Summer

The Commission’s proposal is expected to be unveiled after the summer. While specific measures have not yet been announced, the initiative signals that Brussels is preparing a broader strategy to regulate how social media platforms interact with children across all EU member states.

If approved, the legislation could establish common standards throughout the bloc and reduce the differences that currently exist between national approaches.