Full Breakdown
Norway Expands Under-16 Social Media Ban to Include Gaming and Messaging Platforms
By Drooid · · How we work
Expanded Ban Targets Gaming and Messaging Apps
Norway’s government announced on October 19 that its draft legislation to bar children under 16 from social media will also cover “harmful platforms” such as the messaging services Snapchat and TikTok and the online-gaming service Roblox. The law would require these platforms to implement age-verification systems and would apply until January 1 of the year a child turns 16. Platforms deemed “harmless,” such as school-communication apps, could remain accessible. The proposal must still secure support from parties outside the centre-left Labour minority that holds a parliamentary minority.
Background and Legislative Timeline
The original draft, published in 2025, set the minimum age for social-media use at 15 and was revised to 16 in April 2024. Public consultation followed in Norway and across the European Economic Area. Norway joins other European nations—Denmark, Spain, and France (which saw its attempt struck down by the Constitutional Council)—in moving to restrict under-16 access. Australia introduced the world’s first similar ban in December 2023, covering platforms including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat and YouTube. At the EU level, the European Commission’s “EU Kids Act” proposes age-based restrictions for social media, online games and other digital services.
Official Statements & Responses
She emphasized that the government is also safeguarding children’s “right to participate,” though details on how participation will be ensured were not provided. Technology firms Snap Inc., Roblox Corporation and ByteDance (owner of TikTok) have not responded to requests for comment.
Verbatim Quote
“Today there are certain platforms that present themselves as games but in fact are full of features such as algorithmic recommendation systems and illegal advertising targeting children,” — Families Minister — Families Minister
