Breaking: New Zealand Rolls Out Restrictions for Minors on Social Platforms
Online platforms in New Zealand may soon restrict access for individuals aged 16 and under, marking potential new regulations aiming to protect younger users from potential online risks. - Online networks to be prohibited for minors under 16 in New Zealand
Hey there! So, Christopher Luxon, our PM, is pushing for a change in the digital landscape. He's putting forth a bill that's all about securing the online safety of our kiddos. This bill, if passed, would make it mandatory for platforms like Instagram and TikTok to ensure their users are at least 16 years old. Refusing to comply could land these platforms in hot water, facing fines of up to NZ$1.8 million (that's roughly US$1.1 million).
The bill is backed by the National Party, which, let's face it, is currently ruling in a coalition. The National Party drafted this bad boy, and they're confident about gathering support from both parliamentary chambers.
Now, why all this fuss about youngsters and social media, you ask? Well, parents have been vocal about their concerns regarding the impact of social platforms on their kids. They've also shared their struggles in controlling their little ones' access to these digital playgrounds.
The proposed regulations echo a strict law that Australia passed back in November. This Aussie law sets a 16-year age limit for popular social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat. However, platforms like YouTube, which can offer educational content to younger audiences, may secure exemptions.
The enforcement details for the Aussie law are still under discussion, much like the regulations here in New Zealand. We're yet to figure out how the ban will be enforced once it comes into effect in December.
By the way, this isn't the first time we've taken action to safeguard our children. In 2021, New Zealand banned mobile phone use in schools to tackle declining literacy rates.
- Christopher Luxon
- Children
- Prime Minister
- Tiktok
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Christopher Luxon, New Zealand's Prime Minister, has proposed a bill focused on securing the online safety of children, advocating for platforms like Instagram and TikTok to only allow users who are 16 years old or older.
- Refusing to comply with these new regulations could result in fines of up to NZ$1.8 million (approximately US$1.1 million).
- This bill is supported by the National Party, which currently rules in a coalition, and they are optimistic about gaining support from both parliamentary chambers.
- The proposed regulations mirror a law passed in Australia in November, which also sets a 16-year age limit for popular social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat.
- The enforcement details for both the Australian and New Zealand laws are still under discussion, with the ban set to be enforced in December.
