Politics · Malaysia Bureau
New Zealand Set to Ban Social Media Access for Under-16s
Wellington is advancing legislation that would prohibit children under 16 from accessing social media platforms, with hefty penalties for non-compliant companies. The proposed measure represents one of the world's strictest approaches to protecting young users from digital harms.
LSN Malaysia ·
New Zealand's government is moving forward with a legislative initiative to restrict social media use among minors, establishing an age threshold of 16 years and implementing significant financial penalties for platform operators who fail to comply.
Under the proposed framework, social media companies that breach the restrictions could face fines reaching 10 percent of their global annual revenue—a substantial deterrent designed to ensure strict adherence to the age restriction rules.
The bill reflects growing international concern about the impact of social media on child development, mental health, and online safety. Lawmakers have framed the measure as essential protection for vulnerable young users against potential harms including cyberbullying, addiction, and exposure to inappropriate content.
The initiative places New Zealand among countries implementing the most stringent controls on youth access to digital platforms. Implementation details regarding age verification mechanisms and compliance oversight are expected to be clarified as the legislation progresses through the parliamentary process.
The move comes amid mounting pressure from parents, educators, and mental health professionals across the Asia-Pacific region who have raised concerns about social media's effects on young people's wellbeing.