Nordic leaders seek tougher rules to protect children online

Eight Nordic leaders have called for tighter rules on smartphones, social media and technology companies, warning these can seriously affect children’s and young people’s wellbeing, mental health, learning and development. The declaration was issued at a Nordic Council meeting in Helsinki, KVF reported.

The proposed measures include age limits on social media, fewer smartphones in schools and action against addictive algorithms and design.

Faroe Islands Prime Minister Beinir Johannesen said measures were already being introduced in the Faroes, including work on an age limit for social media and removing smartphones from schools.

“It is, of course, even stronger when all the Nordic countries now stand together,” Johannesen said. He said he trusted young people in the Faroe Islands, but that politicians, parents and authorities all had a responsibility to create the best conditions for them to thrive.