EP passes resolution requiring minimum age of 16 to use social networks

The European Parliament (EP) on November 26 passed a directive resolution, proposing to apply a default minimum age of 16 years old for users of social networking platforms.

The proposal aims to build a safe, healthy and age-appropriate online environment for children in the context of rapidly developing digital technology .

According to a draft resolution published in October, the European legislature proposed to set a uniform digital age threshold across the European Union (EU). Specifically, users under 16 years old will not be allowed to access online social networking platforms, unless they have valid consent from their parents or guardians.

The parliament believes that setting a common age limit could help reduce the risk of children being exposed to inappropriate content, as well as limit data collection on underage users.

In addition to the 16-year-old mark, the resolution also emphasizes the need to set a minimum age limit of 13 for accessing social media platforms and video- sharing services. This age limit is also proposed to apply to “AI companion” services, which are artificial intelligence systems designed to interact personally with users.

The introduction of two age levels aims to ensure that younger children do not have early access to complex online environments, while also providing a basis for member states to develop appropriate management measures.

Despite the widespread attention, the EP resolution is not legally binding and does not impose mandatory obligations on member states. It is considered a policy-oriented document, aimed at promoting discussion and shaping the legal framework for cyberspace in the coming time.

Agreeing on a minimum age is an important step in efforts to improve the protection of minors against harmful content, negative online behaviour and risks related to personal data, the parliament said.

In recent years, the popularity of social media and online interactive platforms has created many management challenges, especially for children and teenagers.

European authorities believe that it is necessary to have appropriate control measures and at the same time encourage responsibility from technology businesses in protecting the interests of this group of subjects./.

(TTXVN/Vietnam+)

Source: https://www.vietnamplus.vn/ep-thong-qua-nghi-quyet-quy-dinh-toi-thieu-16-tuoi-moi-duoc-dung-mang-xa-hoi-post1079526.vnp