British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has announced plans to ban children under 16 from accessing social media platforms across the United Kingdom, describing the move as a bold but necessary step to protect young people from the growing dangers of the digital world.
The proposed restrictions, expected to come into force next year, will prevent under-16s from using major social media platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, YouTube and X. However, messaging applications such as WhatsApp and Signal will remain exempt.
Announcing the policy, Starmer said the decision marks a significant moment for the country and its future generations.
“Today is a big moment for our country. This is a big step, real change for our children and our future,” he declared.
The Prime Minister acknowledged that social media has brought benefits to young people, but argued that the risks now outweigh the advantages for children.
“This is not something I do lightly, and I will not present it as cost-free, as if social media has brought no benefits to young people. Because clearly, that is wrong,” he said.
“But government is always about choices, and it’s clear to me that a full ban is the right choice.”
Starmer, speaking not only as a political leader but also as a parent, said concerns about children’s safety online influenced the government’s decision.
“As a parent myself, I know exactly the fears that we all feel when we’re thinking about this issue,” he stated.
The Prime Minister noted that parents across the country have become increasingly worried about the impact of excessive screen time, cyberbullying, harmful content and social media addiction on children and teenagers.
The announcement places the United Kingdom among a growing number of countries taking tougher action against children’s access to social media. Supporters argue that the restrictions will help improve mental health, reduce online risks and encourage healthier childhood development. Critics, however, have raised concerns about enforcement challenges, privacy implications and the potential impact on young people’s ability to communicate and access information.
