Vietnam is advancing a unique strategy to address youth social media usage. Rather than enforcing a total blackout, the government is considering a “muted” experience for minors: allowing them to maintain accounts while stripping away the ability to post, comment, or interact with content.
Under a draft decree from Vietnam’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, reported on Friday by Reuters, users under 16 would be required to register their accounts under a parent’s supervision. This guardian would then oversee the child’s screen time and content access. Furthermore, platforms would be mandated to implement technical safeguards to verify user age and filter for age-appropriate material.
The Goal Behind the Policy
Deputy Culture Minister Phan Tam clarified that the objective is not to isolate children from digital spaces entirely, but to ensure they operate within a safer, age-appropriate environment. The proposal remains under review and could be adjusted before official adoption. Vietnam is also evaluating parallel gaming restrictions, which would limit play for those under 16 to 60 minutes per day.
This initiative reflects a broader international trend. Following Australia’s pioneering move late last year, countries like France have also begun implementing or drafting similar safeguards to protect young users from cyberbullying, addiction, mental health decline, and potential predators.
While government officials argue these measures are essential for child safety, critics—including Amnesty Tech—have raised concerns regarding privacy, invasive verification methods, and the potential ineffectiveness of blanket bans. Despite the pushback, the momentum for legislative action continues to grow.
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Australia
Australia became the world’s first country to ban social media for children under 16 in December 2025. The ban covers major platforms including Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Threads, TikTok, X, YouTube, Reddit, Twitch, and Kick, though it excludes WhatsApp and YouTube Kids.
Companies failing to restrict access face potential penalties of up to $49.5 million AUD ($34.4 million USD). The government insists that platforms must utilize robust verification methods rather than relying on self-reported ages.
Austria
Austria announced in late March plans to ban social media for children up to 14 years old, with draft legislation expected by June.
Canada
The Canadian government introduced a digital safety bill in early June targeting users under 16. The bill allows for exemptions if platforms can prove they have effective protective policies in place. Officials estimate a one-year window for the bill to pass.
Denmark
Denmark is set to ban social media for children under 15, with support secured from multiple political parties in November 2025. The law could be enacted by mid-2026, supported by a government-issued “digital evidence” app for age verification.
France
On July 21, France passed a law banning access to social media for anyone under 15, effective as early as September 1. The legislation also extends the existing school-based cell phone ban to high schools.
Germany
In February, conservatives led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz proposed a ban for under-16s, though coalition partners have shown hesitation regarding a total prohibition.
Greece
Greece will ban social media access for children under 15 starting January 2027 to combat rising anxiety, sleep disorders, and platform addiction.
Indonesia
In March, Indonesia announced a ban for children under 16, targeting major platforms like YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Bigo Live, and Roblox.
Malaysia
The Malaysian government confirmed in November 2025 that it intends to ban social media for those under 16, with implementation slated for this year.
Poland
Poland is currently drafting legislation to prohibit social media use for children under 15.
Slovenia
Slovenia is drafting a law to restrict access for minors under 15, specifically targeting platforms focused on content sharing like TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram.
Spain
Spain plans to ban social media for those under 16. The government is also pushing for legislation to hold executives personally accountable for hate speech on their platforms.
Turkey
The Turkish parliament recently passed a bill to restrict access for those under 15, which now awaits presidential approval.
UK
Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a ban for under-16s on June 15, covering platforms like Snapchat, TikTok, and Instagram. Messaging apps like WhatsApp are excluded, but AI “romantic companion” chatbots will be restricted to users over 18. The law is expected to take effect by spring 2027.
Vietnam
Vietnam’s latest proposal focuses on parental oversight and content restriction rather than a total ban.
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