The European Commission has backed down from the idea of imposing a strict ban on children's use of social networks.
Modern.az reports that “Politico” published this information, citing two European officials working on the proposal.
According to the information, the new approach envisages allowing children under 13 to access social networks with their parents' permission.
“Ensuring flexibility in postponing the age of access to social networks for minors and entrusting the decision to parents will be both beneficial and in line with fundamental rights,” one of the officials said.
According to “Politico”, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen plans to present the softened version of the initiative during her annual speech on the state of the European Union on September 16.
The proposal envisages restrictions on the use of social networks by children under 13. However, parents will be able to give their children permission to access social networks.
One of the main reasons for changing the approach is concerns that an absolute age limit could conflict with legislation protecting the fundamental rights of EU citizens.
Another point that increased Brussels' concern was a court decision in France. In August, the court ruled that French President Emmanuel Macron's proposal to ban social networks for children under 15 was contrary to European Union law.
Nevertheless, Macron intends to ensure that the relevant law is adopted by the spring of 2027.
There is also no unified position among EU countries regarding the age limit for using social networks.
France supports the application of a 15-year limit, Germany 13 years, Austria 14 years, and Spain 16 years.
Estonia, instead of applying a general ban, suggests focusing on limiting the harm that social networks create for children.
