France moves closer to banning social media for under-15s
France is one step closer to introducing a nationwide ban on social media for children under the age of 15.
Lawmakers are scheduled to vote on July 21 on a proposed law that would introduce what officials describe as a "digital legal age", making France the first country in Europe to adopt such a measure if it comes into force.
The French government hopes to implement the law as early as September.
The move comes as more countries rethink how children use social media and the role parents and governments should play in protecting young users online.
Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia and Brazil have already introduced restrictions, while countries including the UK, Norway, Germany and Canada are considering similar measures.
Across the European Union, discussions are also under way on introducing stricter age limits for children's access to social media platforms.
Supporters of the proposal argue that limiting access could help reduce children's exposure to harmful content, cyberbullying and excessive screen time.
The proposed law is expected to face further discussion as countries continue searching for the right balance between protecting children online and allowing them to participate safely in the digital world.
