InternationalMonday, 24 August 2026·The Hindu - International
New Zealand proposes law to ban social media use for children under 16
On 24 August 2026, New Zealand PM Christopher Luxon proposed banning social media use for children under 16, with fines up to 10% of global revenue for firms.
Key highlights
Direct fact
On 24 August 2026, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon proposed a law to ban social media use for children younger than 16, with penalties for tech firms of up to 10% of global revenue.
Key specifics
- The proposed age limit is under 16 years for social media use.
- Platforms named include Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat and Facebook.
- Tech firms could be fined up to 10% of their global revenue for non-compliance.
- New Zealand’s Parliament is due to dissolve on 1 October 2026 ahead of the November election.
- Australia’s under-16 social media ban took effect in December 2025.
Exam lens
International current affairs MCQ: identify the under-16 rule, the 10% global revenue penalty, and the named platforms. TNPSC may ask which country proposed the age-based social media restriction and when Australia’s law took effect.