Spain Plans to Ban Under-16s from Social Media, Requires Age Verification - PM Sánchez

Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez declared at an international summit on February 3rd, 2026, that social media has become a "failed state." He proposed banning under-16s from accessing social media and mandating platforms to implement effective age verification systems. Sánchez emphasized the need to protect children from the negative impacts of social media, such as hate speech, misinformation, cyberbullying, and the amplification of harmful content.

Spain's initiative aligns with similar actions taken by countries like Australia, France, Portugal, Denmark, the United Kingdom, and Greece. Despite valuing freedom of speech, Sánchez highlighted the urgent need for regulation in the digital space, especially concerning young people.

The Prime Minister emphasized the societal shift brought about by social media and the challenges it poses to mental health and relationships. Nick Kossovan, a writer, highlighted the detrimental effects of social media on self-esteem and mental well-being, urging for a more critical approach to online platforms.