France's Struggle with Social Media Regulation for Minors: TikTok in Focus
France faces challenges in regulating social media for minors, especially regarding TikTok's impact.
Key Points
- • Minister Chappaz testified on TikTok's effects on minors before a parliamentary commission.
- • President Macron supports banning social media for children under 15.
- • Legal uncertainties hinder the implementation of existing regulations.
- • EU investigates TikTok for its potential risks to minors.
On June 19, 2025, Clara Chappaz, France's Minister for Digital Affairs, testified before a parliamentary commission addressing TikTok's psychological effects on minors amidst growing concerns about the platform's influence. With nearly 20 million users in France, TikTok has been criticized for its addictive nature and the harmful content it sometimes promotes. President Emmanuel Macron has pushed for stricter regulations, advocating for a ban on social media access for children under 15, although a law passed in 2023 has yet to be implemented due to legal uncertainties.
The commission has engaged with over 100 experts and influencers, revealing a general deflection of responsibility towards parents and the platforms. This has highlighted the complexities involved in regulating social media, especially as European laws currently do not enforce age verification for such platforms, complicating any efforts. Some lawmakers are even contemplating measures such as prohibiting smartphone sales to minors under 15, reflecting the urgency and intensity of the issue. Meanwhile, the European Union is also investigating TikTok regarding minors' protections and addiction risks, signaling a broader regulatory scrutiny around social media usage among youth.