French Constitutional Council strikes down law banning social media for under-15s

Published Aug 14, 01:33 PM UTC

France's Constitutional Council on Friday struck down a law banning social media access for children under 15, ruling that Article 1 of the legislation, championed by President Emmanuel Macron, disproportionately infringed on minors' freedom of expression and communication. The Council deemed the measure 'neither appropriate, necessary, nor proportionate.' Macron had thanked parliament for backing the law and pledged enforcement by September. Following the ruling, the Elysee said Macron tasked Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu with drafting a new 'legally robust' version that complies with both the Council's decision and European regulatory frameworks. The presidency affirmed Macron's determination to implement the reform remains undiminished. The article notes a growing global trend of countries restricting social media access due to concerns over harmful effects on children.