A new poll shows that 90% of Canadians support implementing a minimum age for social media use and the creation of regulatory bodies to oversee tech platforms in response to online safety concerns.
A recent poll commissioned by the Safer Online Spaces Coalition indicates that a significant 90% of Canadians are in favor of establishing a minimum age for social media users, alongside calls for a regulatory body to oversee social media platforms. This strong public support highlights growing concerns regarding the safety of children and youth online, particularly in the context of increasing incidents of online harassment and exploitation.
Leading professionals, including pediatricians and advocates, are emphasizing the urgent need for governmental action. Dr. Charlotte Moore Hepburn has expressed her dismay at the lack of regulation surrounding the online environment, which she believes poses significant risks to young users. Carol Todd, an advocate whose daughter Amanda's tragic story has galvanized public attention on issues such as online bullying and sextortion, shared her frustrations regarding the slow governmental response to protect vulnerable youths in the digital space.
As the government of Prime Minister Mark Carney considers options for enhancing online safety, this polling data could serve as a critical indicator of public sentiment. The overwhelming support for a structured approach to social media regulation reflects societal demands for better protections against online harms, pressing the government to not only move towards legislation but to prioritize child safety in an increasingly digital world.
