The European Union (EU) has ruled that France's draft law to ban social media for under-15s would infringe EU rules if approved in its current form. The EU's executive, the European Commission, stated that the French draft law overlaps with the bloc's Digital Services Act (DSA), giving too much power to French regulators. France must now amend the draft law to make it compatible with EU rules.
EU's Position on the Draft Law
The EU fully supports the objective of better protecting minors online, as stated by EU spokesman Thomas Regnier. However, the European Commission issued a formal written opinion that the French draft law must be amended to align with EU rules. The EU's opinion ensures that any national measure is effective and in line with EU law, minimizing fragmentation of national systems that may create legal uncertainty or weaken enforcement.
Background and Context
The pressure on European politicians to protect children online has increased since Australia became the first country to ban social media for under-16s. Several countries, including Britain, have followed suit. The EU is exploring a possible bloc-wide ban, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen tasking an expert panel to recommend steps Brussels should take to better protect children online.
Implications for France
The EU's ruling means that France cannot approve the law before August 10 due to EU procedures. The French Senate had already modified the law, and the government warned that the changes would not be compliant with EU rules. The commission insists it is acting to protect children, pointing to probes into TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram over whether they keep minors safe.
Significance for Bangladesh
This ruling highlights the importance of aligning national laws with international regulations to ensure effective and consistent protection of minors online. For Bangladesh, it underscores the need to carefully consider international standards when drafting laws related to digital platforms and online safety for children.
