France Submits Revised Law to Ban Social Media for Under-15s After Legal Setback

The French government has been working to limit social media access for young people under the age of 15, arguing that stricter rules are needed to protect children online. President Emmanuel Macron has made online safety for minors a priority, especially as concerns about online harms have increased.

The first version of the law, passed by Parliament, aimed to completely ban social media for those under 15. However, this move quickly ran into legal trouble.

In August 2026, France's Constitutional Council reviewed the new law and decided it could not stand. The Council said the law placed disproportionate restrictions on the freedom of expression, even though it recognized the importance of protecting children.

Following this ruling, the government announced it would revise the proposal to better balance children's safety and their rights. President Macron reaffirmed his commitment to the issue and directed his government to prepare a new draft.

On September 14, 2026, the French government submitted its revised proposal. The new version was sent to the European Commission for evaluation, a necessary step to ensure it fits with broader European Union law. Macron also encouraged other EU countries to consider similar protections for children.

The debate has highlighted the challenge of regulating technology while respecting fundamental rights, and the ongoing tension between child protection and freedom of expression.

The revised French proposal is now under review by the European Commission. Lawmakers and regulators are waiting to see if the changes will address the Constitutional Council's concerns about free expression.

For now, there is no ban in place. The process is paused while the European Commission considers whether the new version meets EU standards.

The main question is whether the European Commission will accept the revised proposal or ask for further changes. If the Commission approves, the law could move forward in France and inspire similar measures in other EU countries. Lawmakers will also be watching to see if the new draft can avoid the legal pitfalls that blocked the first version.