This is a world first, the Australian government intends to pass a law within two weeks which will prohibit access to social networks for those under 16, while currently, most platforms authorize it from age 13. A law whose application and the consequences of its potential non-compliance will weigh not on users, but on the platforms.
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With our correspondent in Sydney, Grégory Plesse
Ban the social networks for those under sixteen, this is the measure presented today by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and he is absolutely convinced of its relevance.
“ It’s the number one topic of conversation among parents after school and a subject of immense concern. Because we know the social damage that can be caused, as well as its consequences “, he said.
Self-harm and suicide attempts
In Australia, cases of self-harm and suicide attempts among adolescents have exploded in recent years, and are often linked to cyberbullying. If Anthony Albanese favors an outright ban rather than strengthening the resources allocated to education on social networks, it is according to him because the fight is too unequal.
“ These tech companies are incredibly powerful. These apps have algorithms that nudge people into certain behaviors “, lamented the Australian Prime Minister.
Effective in one year
This is why it is the latter, and not the children or parents who break the law, who are exposed to possible sanctions if they do not take so-called reasonable measures to verify the age of their users. The law will come into force in one year.
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