Global Teens Weigh In On Australia'S Bold Social Media Ban For Under-16S

Australia's Groundbreaking Social Media Ban

Teenagers worldwide are attentively watching Australia's bold experiment to ban social media for those under 16. This pioneering move, set to take effect on December 9, might inspire similar legislation around the globe.

AFP gathered reactions from teens and adults across multiple continents, revealing diverse opinions about the potential benefits and drawbacks of such a ban.

Mumbai Voices: Nuanced Perspectives

In India's bustling Mumbai, 19-year-old Pratigya Jena shared her nuanced view, saying that social media “should be partially banned because… nothing is either black or white.” She emphasized the vibrant presence of Gen Z on these platforms, noting their entrepreneurial spirit, while also highlighting the adverse impact of adult content on younger audiences.

Cricket coach Pratik Bhurke, 38, also weighed in, suggesting that the Australian approach could inspire kids to spend more time outdoors, which might offer "great benefits" in India as well.

European Reactions: A Mixed Bag

Over in Berlin, 13-year-old Luna Drewes believes the ban might offer a positive shift, as social media often promotes unrealistic beauty standards. Meanwhile, Enno Caro Brandes, 15, admitted that the idea of a ban seems extreme but saw potential in using it as a "detox."

“A ban is a bit extreme, but it could definitely help to do a detox.

Middle Eastern Concerns: Connectivity vs. Control

In Doha, the sentiment is less favorable among young users. Sixteen-year-old Firdha Razak expressed her distaste, calling the ban "really stupid." She noted that it would make communicating with overseas relatives much more difficult.

Youssef Walid, also 16, echoed her concerns and highlighted practical challenges, mentioning that tech-savvy teens could easily bypass restrictions.

African and Latin American Views: Generational Ties

In Lagos, Nigeria, Mitchelle Okinedo, 15, acknowledges the potential distractions social media poses but argues that it’s been integral to her generation. Her mother, Hannah, agrees with the idea of a ban, citing the difficulty parents face monitoring their children online.

Further south in Mexico City, 11-year-old Aranza Gomez and 16-year-old Santiago Ramirez Rojas offered contrasting views. Gomez fears losing a key pastime, while Rojas pointed out social media's role in self-expression but warned of online dangers like kidnappings.

Home Turf: Australians React

Back in Australia, opinions are divided. Fifteen-year-old Layton Lewis is skeptical about the government's effectiveness, while his mother, Emily Lewis, hopes the ban will encourage more genuine, face-to-face interactions among the younger generation.