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How do Canadian teens feel about banning social media? This question has gained prominence following Australia’s landmark decision to ban social media for users under 16. This unprecedented move has sparked a global debate about the role and impact of social media on younger generations, with countries like Denmark, New Zealand, and Malaysia expressing interest in similar legislation.

Australia Sets a Precedent

In December, Australia became the first country in the world to ban social media for children under 16, blocking access to TikTok, YouTube, Reddit, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat and Twitch. This revolutionary step was primarily driven by the Australian government’s growing concerns about the negative effects of social media on young people, including online bullying, misinformation, and unhealthy body image portrayals.

Other Countries Are Watching

Following Australia’s move, several other countries, including Denmark, New Zealand, and Malaysia, have indicated their interest in implementing similar legislation. The debate about the pros and cons of such a ban continues, with countries worldwide closely monitoring the situation in Australia and considering their next steps in the realm of digital regulation.

Are Canadian Teens Next?

As part of an upcoming story, The Globe and Mail’s online culture reporter Samantha Edwards is seeking to hear from Canadian teens about their views on the Australian law. She is eager to understand their relationship with social media, how it impacts their mental health, and whether they would be open to a similar ban in Canada.

Canadian teens: Would you want a social media ban here?

Canadian teenagers are invited to share their thoughts on a potential social media ban for those under 16. If you are a Canadian teenager or know one who might be interested in discussing this topic, please get in touch. Your insights could contribute significantly to this important discussion about the role of social media in our lives.

Ethan Radcliffe

Ethan Radcliffe is a senior reporter and digital editor at The Toronto Insider, specializing in Canadian federal policy, GTA urban development, and national economic trends. With over a decade of experience in North American journalism, Ethan focuses on translating complex legislative and economic developments into clear, accessible reporting for Canadian readers. Ethan’s work emphasizes policy analysis, government accountability, and data-driven reporting, with a strong focus on how federal and provincial decisions impact communities across the Greater Toronto Area and beyond. He has covered infrastructure planning, housing policy, fiscal strategy, and regulatory changes affecting Canadian households and businesses. A graduate of Toronto Metropolitan University’s School of Journalism, Ethan brings expertise in investigative reporting, long-form analysis, editorial standards, and digital publishing best practices. His reporting is guided by verifiable sources, public records, and transparent sourcing. In addition to reporting, Ethan has experience in newsroom editing, fact-checking workflows, SEO-informed journalism, and audience analytics, ensuring stories meet both editorial integrity standards and modern digital discoverability requirements. Ethan is committed to objective, fact-driven journalism and adheres to established ethical guidelines, prioritizing accuracy, clarity, and public trust in all reporting.

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