The French government is considering legislating to ban access to social networks for young people under 15. This project could be discussed in Parliament as early as 2026. This initiative raises many debates about digital majority and the protection of young people online. Let’s discover the details of this ambitious proposal.
The 3 key points not to miss
- The bill could be debated as early as the beginning of 2026.
- The proposed digital majority is set at 15 years, in accordance with European rules.
- Measures are being considered to counter young people’s circumvention of restrictions, particularly via VPNs.
A bill in preparation
The Minister Delegate for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Affairs, Anne Le Hénanff, announced that a bill aimed at banning access to social networks for those under 15 will be presented to parliamentarians in early 2026. This project is considered a “priority” by President Emmanuel Macron. The goal is to set a “digital majority” at 15 years, while respecting European law, particularly the Digital Services Act (DSA).
Currently, a law adopted in 2023 already provided for a digital majority at this age, but it was not compliant with European regulations. With the evolution of the DSA, each country can now decide on a minimum age for access to social networks without violating European legislation.
Why 15 years?
Anne Le Hénanff explains that the age of 15 is chosen because it corresponds to a time when teenagers begin to develop more responsibility and autonomy. “It’s an age where one becomes a bit more responsible and autonomous,” she says. Entering high school symbolizes a life stage where critical thinking is in full development.
Implementation challenges
Implementing such a ban could be complicated by young people’s ability to circumvent restrictions, particularly by using VPNs. The minister plans to collaborate with VPN providers to create blacklists preventing access to social networks. Cooperation with global telecom operators is also being considered.
The parliamentary schedule could also delay the implementation of this project, especially with the Budget vote planned for early 2026. Furthermore, the President of the Republic also wishes to discuss the ban on mobile phones in high schools, a project that will be detailed by the Minister of Education, Édouard Geffray.
Context and challenges of digital majority
The issue of digital majority is increasingly debated around the world. With the rapid evolution of technologies and the intensive use of social networks by young people, many countries are seeking to regulate access to these platforms to protect minors. France is not the only country considering age restrictions; several European nations have already implemented similar regulations or are in the process of doing so.
The Digital Services Act, which regulates digital services within the European Union, allows member states to set specific rules regarding young people’s access to online platforms. This legislative framework aims to better protect users while respecting the diversity of national policies. By choosing to legislate on the issue, France is part of this dynamic of protection and regulation.
