Oslo, August 16, 2026. — The Norwegian government has officially announced radical measures to protect minors on the internet. According to the new bill, which is planned to be submitted to parliament by the end of 2026, access to social networks will only be permitted from January 1st of the year in which the user turns 16. This decision is a response to alarming data regarding the early digitalization of the younger generation.
Platform Responsibility and Legal Basis
A key element of the reform is shifting responsibility onto tech giants. Social media platforms will be required to independently verify the age of users to guarantee that children under 16 are absent from their services. Norway's Minister for Children and Families, Lene Wangsli, emphasized that the state is "fully determined to protect the digital lives of children." The bill is being developed within the framework of the European Union's Digital Services Act (DSA). Although Norway is not an EU member, it participates in the single market through the EEA, which obliges it to consider European directives.
Statistics: Why This Became Necessary
The decision to introduce restrictions was based on fresh data published by the Norwegian Media Authority (Medietilsynet) in August 2026. A survey revealed a shocking picture: 57% of children aged 9–10 already use at least one social network. Among teenagers aged 11–12, this figure reaches 79%. These figures became a catalyst for the government, which sees early access to social media as a threat to children's mental health and safety.
Comprehensive Approach to Digital Hygiene
The ban on social media is just part of a large-scale strategy. The Oslo government is promoting a number of additional measures aimed at creating a safe digital environment. Specifically, plans are underway to strengthen control over digital advertising targeted at children and to recommend that parents reduce the time children spend in front of screens. Furthermore, restrictions on the use of smartphones and smartwatches directly in schools are being discussed to minimize the impact of gadgets on the educational process.
Legal Aspects and EU Position
On August 10, Norway received official clarifications from the European Commission and ESA (European Space Agency/Communication Agency — in the context of digital oversight). The government stated that neither the EU directive on e-commerce nor the Digital Services Act prevents Norway from establishing a national age limit. The main condition is that the new legislation must not impose additional obligations on service providers that contradict European norms. This is viewed as an important step, allowing the country to act more strictly than provided for by basic EU standards.
