New Zealand proposes strict social media ban for under-16s

New Zealand's government has unveiled plans for sweeping restrictions on social media use among minors, marking one of the world's most stringent approaches to regulating youth access to digital platforms.

Under the proposed legislation, social media companies would be barred from allowing users under 16 to access their services. The regulatory framework would impose substantial financial penalties on non-compliant platforms, with fines reaching up to 10 per cent of annual global revenue.

The move reflects growing international concern about the impact of social media on child development and mental health. Several other nations have considered or implemented similar age-restriction measures, though New Zealand's approach places particular emphasis on enforcement through significant financial disincentives.

The proposed bill is expected to establish clear responsibilities for platforms to implement and maintain age verification mechanisms. Tech companies will be required to demonstrate robust compliance measures to avoid substantial penalties, potentially forcing substantial operational changes across the industry.

The legislation represents a significant shift in how governments are addressing digital safety for young people, signalling a departure from voluntary industry self-regulation towards mandatory legal requirements. The outcome of New Zealand's initiative could influence regulatory approaches across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.