On Thursday, Portugal's National Assembly passed a bill aimed at limiting children's access to social media platforms. This move represents one of the first actions in Europe designed to protect minors from online bullying, harmful content, and various forms of exploitation that can occur in the digital space. The legislation reflects a growing concern among lawmakers about the safety and mental health of younger internet users in an increasingly digital world.

The new regulations stipulate that parents must actively approve their children’s use of social media if they are between the ages of 13 and 16. To facilitate this, a safety system involving a digital code will be implemented, providing a mechanism for parental consent. The requirement for parental approval aims to ensure that children are safeguarded against potential online threats while navigating the complexities of social media.

However, this legislative decision is only the first step, as the bill may undergo changes before the final vote in the Assembly. The implications of this law could set a precedent for other countries in Europe, as they seek to establish protective measures for children online. With ongoing discussions surrounding digital safety and children’s rights, the outcome of this legislation will likely be closely monitored by advocacy groups and policymakers alike.