Macron advocates for internet independence in Europe starting at age 15

French President Emmanuel Macron believes that young people in Europe should not have unrestricted access to the Internet until they are at least 15 years old. Macron emphasized the need for parental controls to protect children from online threats such as cyberbullying, pornography, and child sexual abuse. Speaking at the Sorbonne University in Paris, Macron compared exposing children to the internet to sending them into a dangerous jungle without protection.

Macron highlighted the lack of regulation and moderation in online spaces, warning of the dangers posed to children. He called for stricter control of online content, stating that there is a need to “take back control of our children’s lives.” Macron’s government, along with other European countries, is exploring measures to restrict access to online services for children under 13.

The World Health Organization’s study in 2022 revealed that one in six schoolchildren between the ages of eleven and 15 had experienced online bullying, leading to physical and mental health issues such as headaches, stomach aches, and depression. These findings underscore the urgency of implementing safeguards to protect young people online.

Moreover, there are concerns about the radicalization of young Muslims through online platforms like TikTok, as highlighted by Brandenburg’s Office for the Protection of the Constitution. Macron stressed the importance of addressing these online threats, calling it a “civilizational battle” that must be fought in Europe. The push for tighter control of online content reflects a broader effort to safeguard the well-being and safety of young people in the digital age.