U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced a groundbreaking move, proposing a complete ban on social media for users under the age of 16. The ban will encompass well-known platforms such as Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram and Facebook, but will exclude services like WhatsApp and Signal.

Additional measures include restrictions on AI companion chatbots which, to be used, must only be accessible by individuals aged over 18. The British government claims this ban could be in place by spring next year, stating it aims to return power to parents and protect children's childhoods against the potentially harmful effects of social media.

Despite parental consultation revealing a strong majority believe that the risks of social media outweigh its benefits, experts are skeptical about the effectiveness of such a blanket ban. Starmer acknowledges the challenges but remains optimistic, citing concerns over addictive features and their impact on children’s mental health as key motivators for this legislation.

The measures follow in the footsteps of other countries like Australia, which became the first to impose similar bans last year, and Canada, France and Denmark, all of whom are currently developing their own policies. The ban is intended to curtail bullying, exposure to harmful content, and the detrimental effects on children’s development.