Daijiworld Media Network – Ottawa

Ottawa, Jun 11: The Canadian government has introduced new legislation that could prevent children under the age of 16 from accessing social media platforms unless companies can demonstrate that their services are safe for young users.

Under the proposed law, social media companies would be required to obtain exemptions by proving that adequate safeguards are in place to protect minors from harmful online content.

The legislation targets seven categories of harmful material, including content that promotes self-harm, incites violence or hatred, and the sharing of non-consensual intimate images.

As part of the proposal, the government plans to establish a Digital Safety Commission of Canada to oversee enforcement and regulation of online safety standards. However, the specific criteria for granting exemptions to social media platforms are yet to be announced.

Culture Minister Marc Miller said setting up the new regulatory body could take up to 18 months.

The move places Canada among a growing number of countries seeking stricter controls on children's access to social media. Nations including Australia, Brazil and Indonesia have either introduced or proposed age-based restrictions aimed at improving online safety for minors.

The proposed legislation reflects increasing global concern about the impact of social media on children's mental health, safety and well-being. If enacted, it would significantly tighten regulations governing youth access to digital platforms in Canada.