The Canadian government has introduced a major Digital Safety Bill that would prohibit children under the age of 16 from accessing social media platforms unless those platforms meet strict safety requirements. The proposed legislation also includes new rules aimed at regulating AI chatbots, making Canada one of the first countries to address both social media safety and artificial intelligence under a single framework.
According to government officials, the bill seeks to create a safer online environment for young users by reducing exposure to harmful content and limiting the negative effects of excessive social media use. Authorities argue that many digital platforms are designed to maximize user engagement, which can contribute to issues such as anxiety, depression, isolation, and other mental health challenges among children and teenagers.
The proposed law would establish an independent digital regulator responsible for setting and enforcing safety standards for social media platforms and AI powered services. Companies that fail to comply could face significant penalties, including fines of up to 3% of global annual revenue or C$10 million, whichever amount is greater.
The legislation follows a growing international trend toward stronger online protections for children. In 2025, Australia became the first country to introduce a nationwide social media ban for users under 16. Several other countries, including France, Denmark, Poland, and Greece, are also considering stricter rules for young internet users.
Technology companies are reviewing the proposed legislation and its potential impact. Representatives from major platforms have stated that they support efforts to improve online safety while continuing discussions with policymakers regarding implementation details.
Experts believe Canada’s proposal goes beyond simply restricting access. The legislation aims to encourage a broader redesign of the digital ecosystem by requiring platforms to adopt stronger child protection measures and safer online experiences. The inclusion of AI chatbot regulation further expands the scope of the bill, reflecting growing concerns about the influence of artificial intelligence on young users.
If approved by Parliament, the law could take more than a year to pass, followed by an additional implementation period for establishing the regulatory framework and enforcement mechanisms.
