European Union lawmakers demanded that social media platforms implement a "youth mode" for children, disabling addictive features and targeted advertising.
The demands are increasing for the European Union to guarantee that social media platforms and similar services are made safe for children prior to their use.
A specialist report on Monday additionally suggested a "safety-by-design" strategy where platforms safeguard minors from potential risks associated with the apps.
"The duty for ensuring the safety of children and teenagers should primarily rest with those who create and run digital platforms," stated EU lawmaker Sandro Ruotolo.
The EU has concerns regarding addictive features such as infinite scrolling, autoplay, push notifications, and highly personalized recommendation systems.
The culture committee of the parliament additionally advocated for an "EU code of conduct" to oversee influencers and a unified definition of "influencer marketing."
It also emphasized the necessity for increased clarity regarding the functioning of social media, as "unclear algorithms and content moderation hinder young users' understanding of why specific content is suggested, limited, or eliminated."
Also Read: Von der Leyen Supports Age-Based Social Media Curbs
The expert report on Monday also advised limiting social media for kids under 13, permitting access solely with adult oversight.
EU leader Ursula von der Leyen stated on Monday that she is in favor of restrictions for children under 13 using digital platforms such as social media.
She mentioned that a legal proposal will be made after the summer break.
Also Read: Europe, Ukraine Join Forces on Next-Generation Missile Defence
After it is revealed, EU negotiators from the parliament and European capitals will debate it to reach a consensus on a final law.
In recent months, the EU has intensified its demands on social media platforms, instructing Facebook and Instagram last week to remove their "addictive" features, following a comparable caution issued to TikTok in February.
Also Read: EU and UK Impose Joint Sanctions on Russia Over Cyber Attacks
The European Commission, serving as the bloc's digital regulator, announces that new regulations are forthcoming to encourage modifications to the addictive designs of platforms.