Spain Proposes Social Media Ban for Minors Under 16

Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced plans to prohibit access to social media for individuals under the age of 16, a move aimed at protecting young people from harmful online content. This announcement was made during the World Governments Summit in Dubai, where Sánchez criticized major tech companies for their role in allowing illegal content, including child exploitation and hate speech, to proliferate on their platforms. He stated, “Today, our children are exposed to a space they were never meant to navigate alone. We will no longer accept that.”

Spain plans social media ban for under-16s - the latest country to consider internet safeguards for children

The proposed ban will require social media platforms to implement effective age verification systems, moving beyond simple self-declarations of age. Sánchez emphasized the need for “real barriers that work” to enforce this ban. The legislation is expected to be introduced in Parliament as early as next week, although Sánchez's coalition government currently lacks a parliamentary majority, which may complicate the approval process.

Spain Considers Social Media Ban for Under-16s, Joining Others in Europe

In addition to the age restriction, the Spanish government plans to hold social media executives criminally liable for failing to remove illegal content from their platforms. This includes making algorithmic manipulation and the amplification of illegal content a criminal offense. Sánchez described social media as a “failed state” where laws are ignored and crimes tolerated.

Australia's Social Media Ban for Kids Is Really Catching On

Spain's initiative aligns with similar measures being considered or implemented in other countries, including Australia, which became the first nation to enact a social media ban for under-16s in December 2025. France is also moving forward with a ban for those under 15, while Denmark and the United Kingdom are exploring similar regulations. Sánchez referred to this collective effort as a “coalition of the digitally willing,” comprising five other European countries, although he did not specify which nations are involved.

Spain, Greece weigh teen social media bans as Europe hardens attitude against ‘addictive,’ ‘harmful’ technology platforms

The proposal has faced criticism from various political factions. The far-right Vox party accused Sánchez's government of attempting to suppress dissenting voices, claiming that the measures are designed to maintain control over public discourse. Pepa Millan, a spokesperson for Vox, stated, “The only thing they legislate for and the only measures they take are to cling to power and maintain the official narrative in the media.”

Spain weighs social media ban for under-16s as European nations harden stance

Conversely, public sentiment appears to support the initiative, with a recent Ipsos poll indicating that 82% of Spaniards believe children under 14 should be banned from social media.

Spain weighs social media ban for under-16s as European nations harden stance

The Spanish government is set to begin the legislative process for the proposed ban and accompanying measures next week. The outcome will depend on parliamentary approval, which remains uncertain given the current political landscape. As Spain moves forward, the international community will be closely monitoring the implementation and effects of these regulations on social media usage among minors.

Spain considers social media ban for under-16s, joining others in Europe

• “We will protect them from the digital Wild West.” — Pedro Sánchez, Prime Minister of Spain

Spain, Greece weigh teen social media bans as Europe hardens attitude against ‘addictive,’ ‘harmful’ technology platforms

• “No more pretending that technology is neutral,” — Pedro Sánchez, Prime Minister of Spain

Spain Considers Social Media Ban for Under-16s, Joining Others in Europe

• “Our children are exposed to a space they were never meant to navigate alone.” — Pedro Sánchez, Prime Minister of Spain

Spain plans social media ban for children under 16

• “The only thing they legislate for and the only measures they take are to cling to power and maintain the official narrative in the media,” — Pepa Millan, Vox Party Spokesperson

Spain, Greece weigh teen social media bans as Europe hardens attitude against ‘addictive,’ ‘harmful’ technology platforms