White Ribbon UK response to the under-16’s social media ban

Following the Government’s announcement of a social media ban for under-16s, White Ribbon UK recognises that children and young people are currently able to access harmful online content with too little regulation and too few consequences for the platforms that allow it to spread. However, the issue extends far beyond how young people interact online. Plans to restrict children’s access to social media may form part of the response, but they should not be seen as the only way to tackle online harm. 

It is important to recognise that online spaces are not inherently harmful. Many children and young people use social media to access educational content, mental health support, community connections and other positive resources. A blanket ban could restrict access to these benefits and create unintended consequences if it is not accompanied by longer-term, prevention-based solutions. 

We must also recognise that without safety-by-design features across online platforms for all users, harmful content will persist. Young people may still encounter it when they are older or through less-regulated online spaces. 

Technology companies must be held to account, and prevention must be at the centre of the response. This requires safety-by-design features, stronger accountability for technology companies, effective regulation and enforcement, improved media literacy to help young people prepare for social media as they gain access to online spaces, and working with boys and young men to challenge harmful attitudes before they take root and manifest online. 

If we are serious about ending men’s violence against women and girls, we need to tackle the wider culture and systems that allow harmful attitudes to grow, online and offline.