Health

Denmark to ban social networks for children under 15 next year

"Denmark confirms a ban on social networks for children under 15, effective next year. Discover Prime Minister Frederiksen's insights on mental health and the future of youth online engagement."

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Denmark to ban social networks for children under 15 next year
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Denmark is set to implement a ban on the use of social networks for children under the age of 15, with the new regulations expected to take effect next year. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen announced the decision, citing concerns that screens and online platforms negatively impact the mental health of young people.

"We"ve unleashed a monster. Never before have so many children and teenagers suffered from anxiety and depression," Frederiksen stated. She emphasized that the use of social media diminishes teenagers" ability to concentrate and robs them of their childhood.

Under the proposed rules, parents will have the option to permit their children to access social networks starting at the age of 13. This move aligns with similar initiatives in several other European countries, which have indicated plans to restrict internet access for teenagers until they reach 15 years old.

As previously reported, the European Parliament has been involved in discussions regarding various restrictions on online content and usage, reflecting a growing concern for the welfare of young users in the digital age.