France has approved a law banning social media access for children under the age of 15, becoming the first country in the European Union to implement such restrictions on platforms like TikTok. The legislation, championed by President Emmanuel Macron as a key measure in his final term, aims to address concerns about the harmful effects of social media on young users.

The new rules will be introduced in two phases. Starting September 1, children under 15 will be prohibited from creating new accounts on social media platforms. The ban will then extend to existing accounts held by under-15s beginning in January 2027, according to the details outlined in the legislation.

President Macron described the measure as a step for France to "lead the way in Europe" in protecting children and teenagers online. The move comes amid increasing international attention and regulatory efforts to limit children's exposure to social media, reflecting growing apprehensions about mental health risks, privacy violations, and inappropriate content.

While specifics of enforcement and penalties have not yet been fully detailed, the law positions France alongside other countries that are considering or have implemented similar restrictions to regulate young users' interactions with digital platforms.

Supporters of the ban argue that it is necessary to safeguard children from potentially damaging online environments and to encourage healthier social development. Critics, however, have raised concerns about issues such as digital inclusion and whether age verification measures will be effective or may push younger users toward less regulated or underground platforms.

As France moves forward with implementation, the legislation is expected to prompt further debate across the European Union on how best to balance child protection with digital freedom and innovation.