Spain has announced plans to introduce legislation banning social media access for children under the age of 16, with government officials pledging to shield young people from what they describe as the “digital Wild West.”
The proposed measure would require social media platforms operating in Spain to implement stricter age-verification systems to prevent minors from creating or maintaining accounts. Authorities say the move is aimed at addressing growing concerns about cyberbullying, harmful content exposure, online predators, and the mental health impact of excessive screen time.
Spanish officials argue that current regulations have failed to keep pace with the rapid evolution of digital platforms. “We must guarantee a safer online environment for our children,” a government spokesperson said, emphasizing that enforcement would focus on platform accountability rather than penalizing families.
Under the proposal, companies that fail to comply could face significant fines. Lawmakers say the framework will align with broader European Union efforts to strengthen digital safety standards, including child protection measures under existing tech regulations.
The announcement follows mounting global concern over the effects of social media on youth wellbeing. Multiple studies have linked heavy platform usage to increased anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances among teenagers. Advocacy groups in Spain have called for stronger safeguards and clearer digital boundaries for minors.
However, critics question the feasibility of enforcing a blanket ban, raising concerns about privacy implications of age verification and the possibility that young users may turn to unregulated platforms.
If passed, Spain would join a growing list of countries exploring tougher restrictions on youth access to social media, signaling a broader international shift toward prioritizing child safety in the digital age.
