An expert from University of Oxford has weighed in on the debate about banning children under the age of 16 from social media. The comment comes as lawmakers in the UK and elsewhere consider similar policies to Australia’s recent ban on major platforms for that age group. The expert said the issue raises complex questions about harms, evidence and wider effects on young people’s lives.

🌍 Global Context and Rising Interest

In December, Australia’s government introduced legislation that blocks users under 16 from accessing major social media platforms. That move has resulted in millions of accounts being closed and has attracted international attention. At the same time, the UK government is consulting on whether to pursue comparable measures as concern grows about excessive screen time and harmful online content.

However, the expert noted that a social media ban is not a clear-cut solution. In Australia, the policy proved popular among parents, but early interviews with young teens showed mixed reactions. In some cases, children turned to other digital spaces to stay connected.

⚠️ Harms Are Real, But Evidence Is Complicated

The expert highlighted that many young people report negative experiences online, such as bullying, exposure to violent or explicit material, and harassment. However, large-scale studies suggest that the effects of social media on mental health and wellbeing are complex. In other words, removing access does not automatically guarantee better outcomes.

At the same time, social media can play positive roles in young lives. For example, it can help teens maintain friendships, express identity, find information and engage with communities. Therefore, any policy must balance potential harms with benefits.

🔄 Risks and Unintended Consequences

The Oxford expert warned that banning under-16s might drive young people toward less-regulated or niche digital platforms. These alternative spaces may lack safeguards and be more difficult for parents and educators to monitor. As a result, the ban could inadvertently increase exposure to risk.

Moreover, denying children agency in managing online risks could hinder their ability to develop resilience. Instead of avoiding harmful content entirely, young people may benefit more from guided support and safer digital design.

📜 Alternative Approaches and Policy Tools

The expert highlighted that other strategies already exist to protect youth online. For example, the Online Safety Act 2023 requires platforms to guard under-18 users against the most harmful types of content and to tailor content to age-appropriate groups. Similar rules in the EU aim to impose strict safeguards on major platforms.

These approaches focus on making platforms safer rather than blocking access entirely. They rely on age verification and tailored content delivery rather than outright bans.

🧑‍👩‍👧 The Trust and Support Gap

Ultimately, the Oxford expert urged that any policy should ensure that parents, caregivers and tech companies work together to protect children. Building trust and supporting safe digital habits may have more lasting effects than a ban alone.