What the World Thinks about Australia’s Ban on Social Media

Last week on November 28, 2024, the Australian Parliament suite an agreement law on the proper and permanent ban on social media completely for citizens who claimed to be under the age of 16 years. Australian Parliament arranged a voting committee among the members. The assembly where 1/3 of members vote for the 19-year category. The other 2/3 choose 14 years as the ideal age for restricting the citizens from this Social web media. So, the government decided 16 years was the best option.

Government of the Republic of Australia strictly opposes social media platforms like – TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Reddit, etc. Govt. rudely criticizes these platforms and announces the file of over 33 Million Australian Dollars. 

Is that Australian Govt. Right or Wrong?

Ban on social media platforms was not a recent topic in many nations like the United Kingdom, United States of America, United Arab Emirates, Germany, and many developed countries. They make restrictions laws and amendments but before Australia, no one permanently banned Social Media.

Australian Government mentioned the all main reasons, issues, and effects, created by social media on their citizens and special on children. They oppose content and algorithm criteria, policy and security, and addiction to social media. With the boost of social media networking cyber crimes by these platforms also grew up. 

Australian government only wants their people’s better and secure future which was one of the bold points in their report summary. No doubt it’s good to restrict activities and things that distract the mind of a person and decrease its productivity. But it also comes as a broom on some points it depends on the person and society. 

Pros and Cons of Australia’s Ban on Social Media for Under16s 

Again same question social media is a broom or a curse, like the age of this query its answer is also so aged getting. We can’t refuse the adage of our ancestors nothing is harmful or beneficial it depends on the person who uses the following thing or techniques whatever. Australian govt. Ban on social media could be categorized in both categories but let’s talk about the same highly discussable only.

PROS:-

1. It gives people more time to spend with their family.
2. Productivity in education and work would increase.
3. People have to focus on their health and other hobbies.
4. Number of Data manipulations stop stop around the globe.
5. Children under 16 can’t addicted to the use of mobile without any reason.
6. Vulgarity and Hate could not spread among the underage people.

CONS:-

1. Instant news was not accessible.
2. People can’t communicate with other people beyond Australia till 16.
3. Social Media Entertainment could not be an option for many more.
4. Content Creation opportunities must be getting low. 
5. Other world updates are not noticeable anymore.
6. Contact methods become the least.

What nations and Famous MNC Celebs’ thoughts?

The recent social media prohibition on the under-16 contingent within Australia has triggered a plethora of responses from international leaders, organizations, and social media technologies. 

International Reaction:

Elon Musk, who has the title of owner of X (formerly Twitter), has concerns over such restrictions as acting like a “backdoor way of controlling the access to the Internet” for Australians, meaning potential legal challenges against the law.

According to UNICEF, this prohibition will drive more and more young people into unsafe and uncontrolled environments on the internet, thereby putting their rights in jeopardy and blocking access to vital information. The organization called for holding social media companies accountable for whatever happens rather than creating a complete ban on social media.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese defended the use of the law, asserting that it is intend to keep children safe from dangers like cyberbullying & exploitation and that it is highly regarded by other countries for being proactive.

Tech Company Responses:

Meta Platforms, the gadgets of Facebook and Instagram, branded the legislation as “rushed” and ineffective, arguing that it might drive children to less safe platforms which are not include in the prohibitions. Also, platform like YouTube and online gaming services are exclude, which nullifies the argument.

The critics on TikTok say that the legislation was not well-thought-out enough and, therefore, could be damaging to children’s safety online. They asserted that the restrictions might drive younger users deeper into more dangerous corners of the Internet with no parental oversight.

Public Opinion:

The Australian public seems predominantly in favor of the prohibition resurrected on social media, as a YouGov survey suggests 77% of Australians favor restrictions for those under age 16. Some citizens remain divided about the issue, with some partaking in public protests against perceived government overreach and others favoring the mandate as something needed for child safety.

On the whole, the ban from Australia’s side has gathered enough support in the country but raises all sorts of complex questions regarding its implementation, opens up all kinds of unintended consequences and points out where the forthcoming global policy will settle on youth access to social media.