Ottawa: The Canadian government has unveiled a major new online safety proposal that would prevent children under the age of 16 from accessing social media platforms and introduce new rules for artificial intelligence systems, marking a significant step in the country's effort to create a safer digital environment for young people.
The legislation, introduced in Parliament this week, is part of a broader plan aimed at addressing growing concerns over the impact of social media and emerging AI technologies on children and teenagers. Government officials say the proposed measures are intended to reduce exposure to harmful online content, cyberbullying, exploitation, and other digital risks facing young users.
Under the proposed law, social media companies would be required to block access to users under 16 unless they can demonstrate that their platforms meet strict child safety standards established by Canadian regulators. Companies that fail to comply with the rules could face substantial financial penalties.
The government argues that technology firms have not done enough to protect children online and that stronger oversight is necessary as digital platforms become an increasingly important part of everyday life. Officials say the legislation places responsibility on technology companies to design services that prioritize safety rather than engagement and advertising revenue.
A key element of the proposal is the creation of a new Digital Safety Commission. The independent regulator would be responsible for monitoring compliance, investigating complaints, and enforcing safety requirements across digital platforms operating in Canada.
The legislation also expands government oversight of artificial intelligence. Developers of AI chatbots and other advanced AI systems would be required to implement safeguards to protect users, particularly children. Companies would need to follow standards established by regulators and demonstrate that their products do not expose users to unreasonable risks.
The move comes as governments around the world grapple with the rapid growth of AI technologies and the increasing influence of social media on young people. Concerns have grown over the potential effects of excessive screen time, online harassment, misinformation, and the psychological impact of algorithm driven content.
Canadian ministers have pointed to a growing body of research linking heavy social media use among young people to mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Child protection advocates have also highlighted the dangers of online predators, sextortion schemes, and harmful content that can spread rapidly across digital platforms.
Supporters of the legislation say it represents a necessary response to a changing digital landscape. They argue that children deserve stronger protections and that governments must act more decisively when technology companies fail to address safety concerns.
However, the proposal has also sparked debate among privacy experts, legal scholars, and industry groups. Critics question how age restrictions would be enforced and whether age verification systems could create new privacy risks for users. Others argue that restrictions alone may not fully address the challenges young people face online.
Technology companies are expected to closely monitor the bill as it moves through Parliament. While many firms have publicly supported efforts to improve online safety, they may seek changes to certain provisions before the legislation becomes law.
The proposal follows similar efforts in other countries. Australia recently moved ahead with restrictions on social media access for younger users, while several European governments are considering tougher measures aimed at protecting children online.
The Canadian government estimates that, if approved, the legislation could take several years to be fully implemented as regulators establish new standards and enforcement mechanisms. Even so, the proposal signals Canada's intention to play a leading role in shaping how social media and artificial intelligence are regulated in the years ahead.
If passed, the legislation would place Canada among a growing number of nations seeking to balance technological innovation with stronger protections for children in the digital age.