International News: U.K. plans social media ban for children under 16
By Zoila Palma: The United Kingdom has announced plans to ban children under the age of 16 from using social media platforms, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer saying the measures are designed to protect young people from content that is “designed to be addictive.” The proposed law would block access to platforms including Snapchat, TikTok, […] The post International News: U.K. plans social media ban for children under 16 appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
Black News 
By Zoila Palma: The United Kingdom has announced plans to ban children under the age of 16 from using social media platforms, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer saying the measures are designed to protect young people from content that is “designed to be addictive.”
The proposed law would block access to platforms including Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and X for under-16s, while messaging services such as WhatsApp would remain available, CBS reports.
Starmer said the restrictions would go further than similar measures introduced elsewhere by also preventing children from accessing features such as livestreaming and communication with strangers.
The proposed rules would also extend to gaming sites. In addition, individuals under 18 would be barred from having artificial intelligence “romantic companions,” although details of how that provision would be enforced have not yet been outlined.
Under the legislation, technology companies would be responsible for ensuring children are not using restricted platforms and could face substantial fines if they fail to comply. Starmer said he hopes Parliament will approve the regulations by late December, allowing the ban to take effect by the spring of 2027. He dismissed concerns that young people could bypass age restrictions, arguing that challenges in enforcement should not prevent action from being taken.
The proposal comes as several countries consider tighter controls on children’s online activity. Australia became the first nation to ban social media for under-16s in December 2025, while countries including France, Denmark, Malaysia and Ireland are also exploring restrictions.
The post International News: U.K. plans social media ban for children under 16 appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
