UK House of Lords Approves Ban on Social Media Use for Minors

The UK House of Lords voted in favor of a legal amendment banning the use of social media platforms by users under the age of 16, in a move aimed at enhancing the protection of children from digital risks.

The vote came after increasing pressure from MPs and lawmakers within the UK political arena, amid growing warnings about the impact of social media on the mental health of children and adolescents.

Supporters in the House of Lords hope the decision will push the government to issue final legislation legally enforcing the ban on major digital platforms.

Proponents of the amendment stated that the ban represents an important first step in protecting the new generation from inappropriate content and negative experiences that could affect their mental and social development.

This comes amid similar international efforts to protect children from digital addiction and online bullying in the UK.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer recently announced that his government would not rule out any option to protect children digitally, but he noted that it is awaiting the results of consultations before moving forward with comprehensive legislation.

Other countries, such as Australia, have taken similar legislative steps by banning social media use for minors, considered a model for comparable measures globally.

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