MEPs want a 16+ age limit for social media

Parliament votes 483–92 for an EU-wide minimum age — non-binding, but loud.

In November, Parliament voted 483–92 for an EU-wide digital minimum age of 16 for social media (13–16 with parental consent), bans on addictive design for minors, and personal liability for senior platform managers. It’s a resolution, not law — but it sets the agenda for the Commission’s Digital Fairness Act, and several countries are moving on their own.

For youNothing changes for your teenager yet. The direction of travel, though, is unmistakable: stricter age checks are coming.

Next: Commission follow-up expected in the Digital Fairness Act.

Verified against the sources above on 18 July 2026. Plain-language summary — not the legal text and not legal advice.