France's Top Court Blocks Under-15 Social Media Ban Over Rights Concerns

France's Constitutional Council has struck down a proposed ban on social media access for individuals under 15 years old. The court ruled that the ban, championed by President Emmanuel Macron, infringed upon fundamental rights, specifically freedom of expression and privacy. The decision cited concerns that requiring adults to verify the age of users would be a disproportionate burden.

This ruling represents a setback for efforts to regulate children's social media use, a growing global concern. While the ban was blocked, President Macron has indicated his intention to rework the legislation and introduce a new draft before the end of his term. The court's decision highlights the complex legal and ethical challenges in balancing child protection with digital freedoms.