Finnish researchers oppose social media bans for young people

Finnish public broadcaster Yle reports that 83 youth researchers in Finland have signed a policy recommendation urging regulation of social media platforms rather than age-based bans for minors.

The researchers argue that restricting young people’s access to social media lacks clear scientific support and risks excluding them from society. Bans could weaken their digital citizenship, participation, and well-being, they warn.

Instead of prohibitions, the group calls for stricter platform regulations to address harmful features and improve user safety. Their recommendations follow work by a government-appointed task force aimed at protecting children and adolescents from online risks.

Several countries, including Denmark and Australia, have recently introduced social media bans for under-15s. Some Finnish politicians, including Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, have proposed similar measures, but the researchers maintain that regulation—not restriction—is the better approach.