European Parliament votes for age verification on social media use

European Parliament Votes for Age Verification on Social Media Use

On Thursday, November 27, 2025, the European Parliament took a significant step towards regulating social media usage by passing a non-binding resolution advocating for age verification measures. This decision aims to enhance online safety, particularly for minors, by imposing strict age restrictions on social media platforms.

Key Details

The resolution stipulates that social media use will be prohibited for individuals under the age of 16. For users aged 16 and older, the new regulations will require them to undergo a rigorous verification process to access any social media website or application. This process includes submitting a government-issued ID card, a selfie, and a voice recording. Furthermore, users will be required to repeat this verification process every three months to maintain their access to these platforms.

Importantly, the resolution does not impose a requirement on social media companies to verify the submitted data themselves. Instead, it allows third-party companies to handle the verification process. This aspect raises questions about data privacy and the reliability of third-party verification services, as users" personal information will be handled by external entities.

Background

The push for age verification on social media platforms comes amid growing concerns about the safety of minors online. With the increasing prevalence of social media in everyday life, lawmakers are seeking to protect younger users from potential harm, including exposure to inappropriate content and online predators. The European Parliament"s resolution reflects a broader trend in digital governance, where regulatory bodies are taking more proactive measures to ensure user safety in the digital age.

As previously reported, similar discussions surrounding online safety and age restrictions have gained traction in various jurisdictions worldwide. The European Union"s commitment to safeguarding minors online aligns with ongoing global efforts to create a safer digital environment.

What"s Next

While the resolution is non-binding, it sets a precedent for future legislation that could enforce these age verification measures across the European Union. Social media companies may need to prepare for potential regulatory changes that could significantly impact their operations and user engagement strategies. The resolution also opens the door for further discussions on data privacy, user consent, and the responsibilities of social media platforms in protecting their users.

As the European Parliament continues to address these critical issues, stakeholders, including social media companies, privacy advocates, and users, will be closely monitoring the developments. The implications of this resolution could reshape the landscape of social media usage in Europe and influence similar initiatives in other regions.

For more information on related developments, see our coverage on recent developments in political safety measures.