Canada is proposing a social media ban for children and teenagers under the age of 16, mirroring a similar law passed in Australia late last year.
But unlike Australia’s law, tech firms could sidestep Canada’s ban if they demonstrate they have policies to minimise harm to minors.
The law includes sweeping measures to regulate AI chatbots and curtail “harmful content” online. It would create a regulator to ensure tech firms comply. Some free speech groups have warned it would expand censorship.
It comes amid calls from parents and advocates to bolster children’s safety online and as other countries – including the UK – eye similar bans.
The law is being proposed ahead of the upcoming G7 summit in France next week, where world leaders are expected to discuss and issue statements on AI and protecting children from online harm.
Canada’s proposed law – the Safe Social Media Act – was put forward in the House of Commons on Wednesday by Culture Minister Marc Miller.
Earlier in the week, Miller said passing a law that addresses online harms was a priority for the Canadian government because “kids are dying”.