Governments around the world are adopting laws limiting the use of social media. Let’s sort out some of the concerns.
An age filter on a social media site. (Illustration by News Decoder)
Editor’s note: On 15 June 2026, the British government said it would ban teens under the age of 16 from accessing a wide range of social media platforms. That makes the UK the latest government to do so. Australia became the first country to do so earlier this year.
To help you understand why so many people are worried about the use of social media by young people, we give you a host of articles written by both our correspondents and student journalists on the topic.
We launched Decoder Replay to help readers better understand current world events by seeing how our correspondents and teen reporters decoded similar events in the past.
What if “sweet sixteen” meant “social media, at last!”
By Ava Rabian, Realgymnasium Rämibühl Zürich
In response to pressure from parents, politicians in Switzerland and elsewhere are considering social media bans. But teens say that won’t solve the problem.
Is social media turning our hearts to stone?
By Page Pointer, The Tatnall School
Social media is supposed to connect us. But endless scrolling through posts leaves many feeling disconnected.
Why social media hasn’t ruined our democracy (yet)
By Amira Blochlinger and Lilia Hofmann, Realgymnasium Rämibühl Zürich
Recent elections show that social media can affect political outcomes. A single post can alter public opinion. How does this affect direct democracies?
Social media for combating hate and disinformation
By Ella Gorodetzky, University of Wisconsin
From Gaza to Israel to the United States some people are turning to social media for civil discussion. Can we stop disinformation about the Middle East?
Can we prevent social media from harming our mental health?
By Maria Ermanni, Realgymnasium Rämibühl Zürich
Social media can harm a young person’s mental health. Can youth be taught to use the platforms responsibly and avoid excessive consumption?
Can endless scrolling rot our brains?
By Haley Davis, Indiana University
It is difficult to turn away from our devices and even harder to turn them off. But if you can, your brain will thank you.
How one young woman broke free of a media addiction
By Ange Umugisha, Kepler
When the screen becomes your escape from depression, can you find a way to face the reality around you?