Paris, 15 August 2026: The Supreme Court of France has repealed the law banning the use of social media by children under 15 years of age in the country. The court ruled that this law violates the freedom of expression of citizens. French President Emmanuel Macron was the main supporter of this law and cited the protection of children.
The court put a stay on the law
The court explained in its judgment that in the process of imposing restrictions on social media, the law actually forces every citizen, even adults, to prove their age before using social media services. The Council has noted that the conditions and limits under which proof of age has to be submitted have not been made clear. The Legislature has failed to establish the necessary legal safeguards to ensure safe and proper compliance with these requirements.
Ban on social media for children under 15 years of age
It is notable that French legislators have unanimously approved a ban on social media for children under 15, making France the first country in Europe to take such a drastic step. Earlier, in December, Australia became the first country in the world to impose a legal ban on the use of popular platforms such as Facebook, TikTok and YouTube for children under 16.
The government will reintroduce this law
According to a statement issued by the Elysee Palace immediately after the court's decision, President Macron has instructed Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu to amend the Constitution and prepare a new draft, taking into account the concerns of the Constitutional Council and the legal shortcomings. The government says that it will reintroduce this law while maintaining a balance between the safety of children and the privacy of citizens.
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