The Canadian government is expected to table a long-awaited online safety bill this week, just before the House of Commons rises for its summer break. The bill, according to government sources, will include a ban on youth under the age of 16 from accessing social media platforms.
Exemptions for Protected Platforms
However, sources indicate that exemptions will be available for platforms that can provide sound proof of measures designed to protect minors from online harms. These platforms may still be accessible to users under 16. Additionally, the bill does not include language prohibiting those 16 or under from accessing AI chatbots.
Strong Public Support for the Ban
An Angus Reid survey released in late March found that Canadians widely approve of prohibiting youth under 16 from accessing social media. Three-quarters of respondents support a full ban, while 13% oppose it and 5% strongly oppose it. Support is strongest among households with children, with 70% in favor.
Screen time addiction was the highest concern among respondents, cited by 94%, the same percentage who cited mental health as a top issue. Other concerns include online predators, misinformation, cyberbullying, privacy, exposure to explicit content, and political radicalization.
International Precedents
Australia became the first nation to ban kids from social media in December, blocking those under 16 from YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. Brazil enacted a similar rule this spring, requiring platforms to prevent infinite scrolling and linking youth accounts to parents. Austria announced a ban for under-14s starting this summer, and Denmark plans a ban for those 15 and under.
The Canadian bill is expected to be introduced later this week, with further details to be released as the legislative process unfolds.
