Swedish proposal for 15-year age limit on social media could restrict adult access

A government-backed plan to introduce a 15-year age restriction on social media in Sweden would force all users—including adults—to verify their identity, creating broader access barriers, the Swedish Internet Foundation warns.

The proposal, currently under consideration, has divided public opinion, according to a new report by the foundation. While six in ten parents support the measure, only two in ten children and teenagers aged 8–19 see benefits in the restriction.

Måns Jonasson, a representative for the foundation, highlighted practical and democratic concerns, noting that mandatory age verification would require all users to submit identification—something many may resist. “We often overlook that this would mean everyone must verify themselves to use these services,” he told public broadcaster SVT.

Jonasson also stressed that social media serves as a primary channel for news, interaction, and entertainment for young people, making restrictions feel alien to their daily lives. “For many teenagers, the idea of not having access to social media is completely foreign,” he said.

The report aligns with criticism from younger users, including 11-year-old Elliot, who told SVT that those affected would “find ways around it anyway.” Erika, 12, suggested a 13-year limit would be more reasonable, calling the 15-year proposal “an exaggeration.”

Beyond youth opposition, the foundation’s findings reveal hesitation among parents, with some questioning whether banning certain citizens from freely accessing online information is justified.

The proposal follows recommendations from a government-appointed investigator, who cited research on the risks of social media for younger users.