French Lawmakers Warn of Social Media’s Harmful Impact on Minors

By: Aremu Toyeebaht

A French parliamentary committee has sounded the alarm on the dangers of social media use among minors, urging a total ban for children under 15 and a nighttime “digital curfew” for teenagers aged 15 to 18.

The recommendations, published Thursday, follow months of testimony from families, influencers, and executives of major platforms. Lawmakers said the move is aimed at protecting young people from addiction, harmful content, and mental health risks.

Committee chair Arthur Delaporte told AFP that he would also be filing a criminal complaint against TikTok, accusing the video-sharing giant of “endangering the lives” of users. “The addictive design of TikTok and its algorithm has been copied by other social media,” the report’s lead writer, Laure Miller, explained, warning that the problem extends beyond a single platform.

The committee was originally set up in March to investigate TikTok, following a 2024 lawsuit filed by seven families who accused the app of exposing their children to harmful content that allegedly pushed them toward self-harm and suicide.

The French government has already hinted at backing stronger restrictions. President Emmanuel Macron’s office signaled support for tighter rules, noting that Australia has begun drafting its own legislation to prohibit social media use for children under 16.

In response, TikTok reiterated that the safety of young users remains its “top priority,” stressing ongoing investments in moderation and parental controls.