The European Union has announced plans to introduce new age-based restrictions on children's use of social media across its 27 member states. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen made the announcement in Brussels on Monday, describing it as potentially the EU’s most significant step yet to protect children from online risks. The proposal, prepared by two experts, recommends a gradual approach to social media access based on age.

According to the proposal, children under 13 would be allowed limited social media use only under the supervision of parents, guardians, or teachers. Restrictions would gradually ease as users grow older. Von der Leyen emphasized the need for age-appropriate rules and said the Commission would present a formal proposal after the summer, possibly detailing it in her upcoming “State of the Union” address in September.

The initiative follows similar actions or considerations in countries such as Australia, the United Kingdom, China, India, and the United States. Technology companies have stated that they already have measures and age limits in place to protect younger users.