Post by : Badri Ariffin

In an effort to safeguard young internet users, New Zealand's legislative body is preparing a bill that would prohibit children below the age of 16 from accessing social media platforms. This initiative aims to protect teenagers from various risks, including cyberbullying, the spread of misinformation, and negative impacts on body image.

Introduced by National Party MP Catherine Wedd, the proposed legislation would mandate social media companies to conduct age verification, following a model initiated by Australia's pioneering teen social media law enacted in 2024. Although it has garnered significant support from members of the National Party, coalition partner responses are still pending.

Members’ bills enable individual lawmakers outside the cabinet to submit legislative proposals, with their selection determined through a ceremonial lottery. The timeline for the formal parliamentary introduction of this bill remains unknown.

This initiative coincides with ongoing parliamentary research into the broader implications of social media on youth. A comprehensive committee report, anticipated in early 2026, will investigate how governments, businesses, and society can mitigate online risks and enhance youth protection.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has consistently underscored rising mental health concerns connected to excessive social media engagement among teenagers, pointing to exposure to harmful content as detrimental to their wellbeing. Critics caution, however, that age verification procedures might heighten privacy vulnerabilities and restrict online freedoms, indicating that the bill may not fully accomplish its protective intent.

As deliberations continue, New Zealand is contributing to a worldwide dialogue on reconciling child safety with digital liberties, a significant challenge for many countries in the digital era.

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