New Zealand Proposes Social Media Ban for Under-16s to Protect Youth
In a bold move to safeguard young New Zealanders, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has proposed a law that would ban children under 16 from accessing social media. The draft legislation aims to combat dangers such as cyberbullying, exposure to violent content, and online exploitation, which parents and teachers have cited as major concerns.
According to Luxon, the proposed law would mandate social media companies to verify users’ ages, ensuring that only those 16 and older can create accounts. Noncompliance could result in hefty fines of up to NZ$2 million (approximately $1.2 million). "This is about protecting our children and ensuring social media companies play their role in keeping them safe," Luxon stated.
The bill’s author, National MP Catherine Wedd, highlighted the absence of legally enforceable age verification measures in New Zealand. The initiative seeks to provide families with better oversight of their children’s online activities. This proposal closely mirrors Australia’s recent laws banning under-16s from social media, where similar regulations faced strong criticism from major tech companies.
A recent 1News Verian poll indicated that over two-thirds of New Zealanders supported restricting social media access for minors. The bill, drafted by Luxon’s centre-right National party, must garner support from the ruling coalition partners to progress through parliament. The timeline for its introduction remains uncertain, though Luxon expressed hope for bipartisan backing, emphasizing its importance as a national issue rather than a political one.
Opposition Labour leader Chris Hipkins expressed openness to the proposal, suggesting that New Zealand should follow Australia’s lead in addressing the challenges posed by social media. "This is a conversation we need to have as a country," he remarked.
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