European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has urged the European Union to postpone granting children access to social media platforms. Speaking at an EU summit, she emphasized the need for caution to safeguard minors from potential online harms. This call comes as the EU seeks to strengthen digital safety regulations amid growing concerns over children’s exposure to inappropriate content and data privacy risks.
In a significant development, an expert panel has been tasked with devising concrete measures to protect young users on social networks. The panel is expected to present its recommendations by July, outlining steps that could include stricter age verification and enhanced parental controls. These efforts align with the EU’s broader Digital Services Act framework aimed at creating a safer online environment.
Meanwhile, the initiative reflects increasing global attention on the impact of social media on children’s mental health and well-being. By delaying access until robust protections are in place, the EU hopes to set a precedent for responsible digital engagement. The outcome of the expert panel’s work could influence future legislation and shape how social media companies operate within Europe.
