Norway has announced plans to introduce a new law that will ban social media platforms from allowing users under the age of 16, in a major policy shift aimed at strengthening online protection for children.
The government also said technology companies will be required to introduce strict age verification systems to ensure compliance with the proposed regulation.
Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said the move is intended to protect children and allow them to enjoy a healthier childhood away from excessive digital influence.
“We are introducing this law because we want kids to have the childhood they deserve, where they can play, grow, and be kids,” he said.
“Play, friendships, and everyday life should not be controlled by algorithms and screens.”
He described the proposed law as an important step toward safeguarding children’s digital experiences and reducing exposure to harmful online pressures.
Norway’s Minister of Digitalisation and Public Governance, Karianne Tung, said the responsibility for enforcing age restrictions should rest with tech companies, not children.
“This method serves as a means to ensure the age limit is respected. I expect technology companies to make sure that the age limit is respected,” she said.
“Children shouldn’t be left responsible for avoiding platforms they aren’t allowed to use. That responsibility lies with the companies that offer these services. They need to put in place good age checks and follow the law right from the start.”
She added that the government has already recorded a decline in children’s use of smartphones and social media due to measures such as national screen-time guidelines and mobile-free school policies.
Norway joins several countries tightening rules around children’s access to social media. France, Spain, and Denmark have all announced similar plans, while Australia and Turkey have already implemented restrictions.
The European Commission has also introduced an age verification app aimed at enforcing online age limits across Europe, which is expected to be rolled out soon.