French Constitutional Council Rejects Ban on Social Media for Under-15s

On August 14, 2026, France’s top constitutional authority rejected a ban on social media access for children under 15. This decision challenges legislation supported by President Emmanuel Macron. The Constitutional Council argued that Article 1 of the proposed law violated freedom of expression and communication for those under 15. Additionally, the Council raised concerns about privacy issues related to an age-verification system for all users.

The legislation was set to take effect on September 1, aiming to prevent younger users from accessing platforms like TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram. The French government advocated for the ban as a measure to protect young people from social media’s harmful effects, including anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, and online harassment.

President Macron had previously appreciated Parliamentary support for the legislation and committed to its enforcement by September. Despite the ruling, the Elysee Palace announced Macron’s instruction to Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu to develop a new draft of the legislation that respects the Council’s ruling and aligns with European regulations. The new draft must be prepared swiftly.

Macron remains determined to implement reforms that enhance online child safety, a key issue in the final years of his presidency. With a decade in office approaching next year and unable to run again due to France’s two-term limit for presidents, this could be one of Macron’s last major domestic reforms.

Gabriel Attal, Macron’s former prime minister and a supporter of the proposal, expressed disappointment following the Council’s decision. He emphasized respect for the ruling while pledging continued efforts against social media’s negative impact on children.

Notably, the Constitutional Council did not address another part of the legislation, which would prohibit mobile phone use in high schools from September 1. French elementary and middle schools already have bans in place.

Globally, countries are increasingly considering restrictions on social media access due to warnings about its harmful effects on children. The debate continues as governments weigh the benefits and drawbacks of such limitations.