The European Parliament members approved a report with 483 votes in favor, 92 against, and 86 abstentions, advocating for a minimum age of 16 for access to social media, video-sharing platforms, and AI assistants. This age could be reduced to 13 with parental consent.
The report was authored by Danish social democrat Christel Schaldemose, whose government is already working on a ban for social media usage by children under 16. The European Commission is also taking this into consideration, with President Ursula von der Leyen anticipating recommendations from an expert panel by year-end.
Additionally, the Members of the European Parliament are pushing for various measures to safeguard children. They are calling for a ban on the most addictive online features, including reward loops, endless scrolling, and engagement-driven algorithms. The parliament also aims to prohibit targeted advertising to minors and stop gambling elements in games for those under 16.
Belgian MEP Bruno Tobback (Vooruit) stated, “We did not eliminate cigarette vending machines to allow children to fall victim to the internet’s whims. The mental and physical well-being of the new generation is crucial.” CD&V emphasized the need for Europe to stand against systems that foster addiction and exploit vulnerabilities. “If that means big tech companies face some resistance, then so be it,” said Liesbet Sommen.
No Belgian MEP voted against the report, while Vlaams Belang and N-VA abstained. Kris Van Dijck (N-VA) argued, “Instead of restricting youth access to digital services by imposing a European minimum age of 16, we should concentrate on digital safety, equitable digital practices, and equipping young people with digital skills without limiting their opportunities.”
His party colleague, Flemish Minister of Media Cieltje Van Achter, shares this view against a minimum age for social media. However, Flemish Minister of Culture Caroline Gennez supports it, and the French Community government is also advocating for a minimum age. A definitive Belgian stance has yet to be established.
(Strasbourg, November 26, 2025)
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