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Canada is set to ban social media use for children under the age of 16 as part of a sweeping new online harms bill expected to be tabled in Ottawa on Wednesday.
According to a report from the National Post, Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government is preparing to introduce long-awaited online safety legislation, which would include a nationwide restriction on social media platforms for minors.
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Is there going to be a social media ban in Canada?
As per the report, a government official confirmed that the upcoming bill will also lay the groundwork for a new online safety regulator and introduce broader rules aimed at tackling harmful content on digital platforms.
The proposed legislation would allow social media companies to apply for exemptions if they can prove strong safeguards are in place to protect younger users.
The bill is expected to be tabled this Wednesday, just before the House of Commons rises for its summer break.
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While the legislation targets social media platforms, it is not expected to include similar restrictions on AI chatbots. Instead, it will establish new responsibilities for digital platforms operating in Canada.
The Carney government is facing growing pressure from child safety advocates and health organizations to strengthen online protections for minors, reviving efforts first advanced under former prime minister Justin Trudeau.
Critics argue Canadian children remain less protected than those in countries such as the United Kingdom and Australia, which already have dedicated online safety regulators.
The announcement comes days after the federal government unveiled its new AI strategy.
For more information about the National Post article, click here.
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