Social Media Ban Debate Grows as Scotland’s Children’s Commissioner Questions Under-16 Restrictions

The debate over a social media ban for children under 16 continues across the UK. Scotland’s children’s commissioner has warned that such restrictions may not make young people safer online.
Nicola Killean said there is not enough evidence to prove a ban would work. Instead, she believes policymakers should focus on social media companies and the way their platforms operate. According to Killean, a social media ban could push children toward less regulated areas of the internet. As a result, some young people might face greater risks rather than stronger protection.

Focus Should Be on Platform Responsibility

Killean shared her concerns as part of the UK government’s consultation on online safety. Her office also carried out a children’s rights impact assessment before submitting recommendations. The assessment examined both the benefits and risks of possible restrictions. In addition, the commissioner worked with a group of young advisers aged between 12 and 17 from across Scotland. Killean acknowledged that social media can expose children to harmful content, cyberbullying, manipulation, and contact from strangers. However, she also highlighted its positive role in communication, learning, self-expression, and community support. She said current evidence on social media bans remains limited and mixed. Therefore, broad restrictions may not solve the deeper problems that exist online.
The commissioner argued that harmful algorithms and engagement-driven business models deserve greater attention. She believes platforms should take more responsibility for protecting younger users.

Concerns Over Wider Impact

Killean also warned that restrictions could affect some children more than others. Young people in rural areas, those with overseas family members, disabled children, and those seeking online support communities could face additional challenges. As a result, she called for policies that reflect children’s age, maturity, and individual needs. She also urged lawmakers to include young people in future decisions about online safety. The UK government launched its consultation in March 2026. The review examined age limits, stronger age verification, and restrictions on features such as autoplay and infinite scrolling.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has already confirmed that action will follow. However, the final approach remains under review as officials analyze more than 100,000 consultation responses.