Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said the country is exploring a ban on social media for preteens. She called smartphones and apps “stealing our children’s childhood.” She made the announcement at the opening of Folketing, the Danish parliament.

Frederiksen said children and teens are suffering more from anxiety and depression than ever before. She said, “We have unleashed a monster. Never before have so many children and young people suffered from anxiety and depression.”

She added that long hours on screens hurt reading skills and concentration. “On screens they see things no child or young person should see,” she said.

Proposed Ban Details

Frederiksen did not name the apps, but said the ban would cover “several” social media platforms. Parents could limit their children’s social media use from age 13.

The move follows Australia, which is banning platforms like Facebook, Snapchat, TikTok, and YouTube for users under 16. Norway plans to raise the minimum age for social media from 13 to 15.

Alarming Statistics

Frederiksen shared disturbing numbers. She said 60% of boys aged 11 to 19 spend free time without seeing a friend. Also, 94% of Danish seventh graders have a social media profile before age 13.

Global Trend

Other countries are taking action too. French President Emmanuel Macron said France will ban social media for children under 15, tweeting, “Platforms have the ability to verify age. Let’s do it.”

Greece, backed by France and Spain, proposed EU-wide rules to limit children’s online use. Studies show social media can harm children’s mental and physical health.

Overall, Frederiksen’s proposal reflects growing global concern. Denmark may soon raise the minimum age for social media use to protect children.