The Constitutional Council of France overturns the ban on social networks for minors under 15 years old
The court considers that the measure violates the freedom of expression of young people by being "disproportionate"
BarcelonaThe Constitutional Council of France has blocked President Emmanuel Macron's flagship bill that aimed to ban access to social networks for minors under 15 years of age. The body, responsible for ensuring the constitutionality of laws, has determined that the measure constitutes an "inadequate, unnecessary, and disproportionate violation" of young people's freedom of expression and communication.
The decision comes as a result of a complaint filed by socialist and radical left-wing French deputies. Although the court acknowledges "the constitutional requirement to protect the best interests of the child," it clarifies that a total ban would affect online services with "undemonstrated risks to the health and safety of minors." Furthermore, the ruling criticizes the law for being designed generically, without considering "the age, family situation, or maturity level" of each minor.
The regulation was to enter into force on September 1st. Its objective was to prevent minors under 15 from using leading applications such as TikTok, X, or Instagram, as well as other essential communication and video services like WhatsApp, Messenger, and YouTube. Certain portals were excluded, such as online encyclopedias, free software development and distribution platforms, and open-source educational projects.
The judicial setback is a blow to the digital agenda of the Élysée. As reported by the French presidency in a statement, Emmanuel Macron has already ordered Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu to redraft the bill in order to correct the text and circumvent the objections and concerns determined by the Constitutional Council.
