In today’s digital era, social media plays a major role in the lives of children and adolescents. While it offers opportunities for learning and communication, excessive and unregulated use can negatively affect their physical health, mental well-being, and overall development.
Research shows that many children lack the skills needed to navigate online environments safely. This makes them more vulnerable to harmful content, online manipulation, and targeted advertising. At the same time, increased screen time often reduces physical activity and real-world social interaction both essential for healthy growth.
The Situation in France
France has taken clear steps to address this issue. With children spending more time on screens at younger ages, the government has introduced legislation to better protect minors from the risks of social media.
The proposed law includes key measures such as:
- Prohibiting children under 15 from accessing social media platforms
- Requiring platforms to verify users’ ages
- Restricting advertising targeted at minors
- Banning promotion of products that may harm children’s physical or mental health
This reflects a preventive approach reducing risks before they affect young users.
A Global Direction
France is part of a broader international trend. Many countries are beginning to set minimum age limits and strengthen regulations on digital platforms. Protecting children in the online world is becoming a shared global priority.
Key Benefits
- Better mental health: Reduced risk of screen addiction, stress, and anxiety
- Safer content exposure: Protection from inappropriate or harmful material
- Less marketing pressure: Limits manipulation through targeted advertising
- Balanced development: Encourages physical activity and real-life interaction
- Stronger platform responsibility: Forces companies to create safer systems
Implications for Thailand
Thailand has a high rate of internet access among children, and problems related to online use such as scams, unintended purchases, and exposure to harmful content are increasingly visible. France’s approach offers a useful reference for future policy development in Thailand.
However, effective solutions should also include education for children, parents, and teachers to ensure safe and responsible digital behavior.
Conclusion
Regulating children’s access to social media is not about limiting opportunities, but about creating a safer digital environment. With the right balance, such policies can protect young people while supporting healthy and sustainable use of technology.
Article by Nattawut Klaikham, Senior Researcher, Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI)