United Kingdom bans U-16s from social media, effective in 2027

The United Kingdom (UK) has announced that young teens (U-16s) will be banned from social media by spring 2027, a period between March and June 2027. 

According to an announcement made by Prime Minister Keir Starmer via an X post on Monday, he noted that social media is making children unhappy and also making it easier to bully actors to abuse children. He said that a ban will give children more time, security and liberty to grow in an ethical manner. 

“That is all any parent wants. They want to know that Britain will be better for their children, that they will get a fair chance,” the Prime Minister said. 

The development comes at a time when several countries have either introduced a ban or restricted young people from social media. 

In December 2025, Australia became the first country to impose a ban. The law bans persons under the age of 16 from accessing social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube. The law has been effective since December 10.

Social media platforms are a key driver of peer pressure and anxiety, and also a medium for scammers who mostly target minors with their online attacks. 

While recognising that there will be concerns and reactions after the announcement, Starmer noted that the ban is about “fighting for what we think is right… and protecting children is right”. He says he is a “fan of tech and AI” but doesn’t accept that you can’t be pro-tech while also protecting children.

Reaffirming his position, Starmer adds that the UK government is “not prepared to compromise” on the safety and happiness of children, which requires the regulation and enforcement of the ban. 

Starmer noted that the government has listened to and learned from countries like Australia, where a similar ban has already been introduced. Also, he hinted that future bans on gaming services and live streaming platforms will be introduced. 

If the ban is passed by parliament, it will certainly come into force by 2027.

Also Read: Egypt begins process to ban social media for teens.

Reactions following the U-16 social media ban

Following the announcement by the Prime Minister, reactions have trailed, which either support or oppose the development. 

For instance, Conservative leader and Nigerian-related Kemi Badenoch has welcomed plans to ban under-16s from social media.

“It is fantastic news that the Government has finally woken up to the dangers of social media for young people. This is an important step in helping parents protect childhood for children,” she writes in a post on X.

Kemi Badenoch

Aside from Australia and the UK, France is also considering a similar move. French President Emmanuel Macron urged his government to fast-track the legal process to ensure a social media ban for children under 15. 

Other countries, including Denmark, Malaysia, Norway, South Korea, Spain and some US states, are already considering the same move.