Australia is planning to ban social media for people under 16 years old, and this idea is getting worldwide attention. Leaders in the U.S. and U.K. are calling it a leading step. However, there are still many questions about whether the ban is fair and how it will actually work.
Pakistan is considering similar steps to protect children online, and can learn from Australia’s experiences.
Australia’s Plan: Ambitious Goals and Real Challenges
In November 2024, Australia’s government agreed on a ban with the goal of keeping kids safe from harmful online content. But before it officially begins in December 2024, there are still unanswered questions, especially about how to check users’ ages.
The UK-based group, Age Check Certification Scheme (ACCS), is trying different age-checking methods, using kids as “mystery shoppers” to test things like age estimation and verification. However, reports are not being shared publicly, and a final decision will come after the May federal election.
Critics point out:
1. Unfair Exceptions: YouTube is not included in the ban because it’s seen as educational, which seems unfair to platforms like TikTok and Meta. About 80% of kids under 13 use YouTube, but only 44% use other social media sites.
2. Exclusion of Key Groups: Organizations focused on mental health, LGBTQ+ issues, and digital rights were left out, while only those supporting censorship were part of advisory boards.
3. Tech and Rule Challenges: The technology for checking ages hasn’t been proven on a large scale yet, and big platforms might resist adhering to these rules, especially if political shifts occur in the U.S.
Lessons for Pakistan
Pakistan has a large young population actively using social media. Here’s how it can avoid Australia’s issues:1.
1. Inclusive Dialogue
Australia reviewed 15,000 submissions in one day, missing critical input. Pakistan must involve mental health, advocates, educators, and digital rights groups from the start. Open and transparent boards can ensure the rules respect everyone’s privacy and freedom.
2. Careful Technology Testing
Tech for age verification can be risky for privacy and may not be very accurate. Pakistan should conduct thorough local tests involving parents, teens, and schools, using tools like facial recognition and document verification. Results should be made public to build trust and improve solutions.
3. Consistent Rules
In Australia, exempting YouTube creates a risky standard. Pakistan needs clear definitions for “educational content” and should apply rules fairly across all platforms. A better approach might be having different restrictions depending on content type instead of an outright ban.
4. Clear Legislation and Gradual Implementation
Rushed laws can lead to poor outcomes. Pakistan should draft clear guidelines, designate oversight bodies, and phase in rules step-by-step. Running pilot programs in schools could help identify problems before a national rollout.
5. Anticipate Platform Resistance
Big companies like Meta and TikTok have resisted Australia’s rules. Pakistan should expect pushback, especially from U.S.-based companies. Building alliances with regional groups like ASEAN or GCC could strengthen negotiation power against these tech giants.
6. Safeguard Vulnerable Populations
Youth often rely on social media for community support. Pakistan must ensure these safe spaces remain accessible while filtering harmful content, requiring input from marginalized groups.
Path Forward for Pakistan
Australia’s situation highlights that protecting children online requires more than just bold moves; it needs detailed planning and execution. For Pakistan, priorities should include:-
1- Comprehensive Studies: Research local social media patterns and risks.
2- Public Education Initiatives: Inform parents and children about digital literacy and safety.
3- Legal Safeguards: Ensure any age-verification complies with data protection laws like Pakistan’s Personal Data Protection Bill.
4- Global Cooperation: Work with international organizations such as UNICEF and ITU for best practices.
Conclusion
Australia’s plan to ban social media for younger users is bold but raises many issues. Pakistan can learn that protecting children online needs not only strong laws but also inclusive, well-thought-out strategies and smart use of technology.
