Sydney: Today brought a big transpiration for Australia. The country has completely vetoed the use of social media for children unelevated 16 years of age. It has wilt the first country in the world to do so. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese tabbed it a historic visualization and personal the transpiration would requite children when their childhood while moreover instilling safety in parents' minds.
What are the provisions in the new law?
From December 10, every social media platform will have to ensure that no Australian child under the age of 16 is present on their site or app. If any visitor breaks this rule, it may have to pay a fine of up to Rs 300 crore. Initially, the government has included 10 big platforms in this scope. These include all the popular apps like TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat and Facebook. Rest of the companies have been given a well-spoken warning that the next step may move towards them also.
Why did the government have to take this step?
Prime Minister Albanese has been saying for a long time that children need to be protected from harmful content and warlike algorithms. According to him, social media companies have failed to alimony children safe, hence this strict visualization was necessary. On the other hand, tech companies say that ban is not the right approach. He believes that proper monitoring and digital education can be increasingly constructive than keeping children yonder from social media.
What is the reaction of children and parents?
Many children have said that instead of imposing a ban, the government should put pressure on social media companies to make their platforms clean. They oppose that responsible use of social media should be taught, rather than wangle stuff obstructed completely. A large number of parents are seeing this visualization as a relief.
Are other countries of the world moreover going to do this?
Strictness regarding social media is not limited to Australia only. Norway is considering increasing the minimum age from 13 to 15 years. Denmark is moreover taking steps in this direction. Indonesia has moreover indicated that it may make major changes regarding the online safety of children. Britain is currently considering limiting children's screen time instead of increasing the age limit. However, the British government has unmistakably said that at present it is not in favor of imposing a ban like Australia.
Has America moreover washed-up this?
The state of Florida had some time ago vetoed the social media finance of children under 14 years of age. But a federal judge stopped it, saying it was versus self-rule of expression. After this decision, the debate on this issue is intense in America also.
