On Thursday 11 September, the parliamentary commission of inquiry into the psychological effects of TikTok on minors released its findings after several months of work. These include a ban on social media for children under 15 and a digital curfew. Discover the commission's recommendations.
Last May, the e-Enfance / 3018 Association was heard by the commission. to share his expertise in the field and his proposals for better protecting young people online.
Review the e-Enfance hearing / 3018 here.
TikTok: widespread use among young people
Every day, from the age of 4, Minors spend an average of nearly two hours on TikTok., even though the application officially does not accept any users under the age of 13. (Source: Report No. 1030, 17th Parliament – National Assembly – March 2025)
Widespread use that raises many concerns: algorithmic confinement, exposure to violent or inappropriate content, cyberbullying, sleep disorders, attention span issues. These risks contribute to an increase in cases of anxiety, depression and sometimes suicidal thoughts among young people.
In light of this observation, the report recommends several concrete measures:
- The addition of health warnings in social media advertisements and on the packaging of phones and connected devices, as recommended by the’e-Enfance Association / 3018 during his hearing before the Commission; ;
- The ban on social media for minors under the age of 15; ;
- The introduction of a digital curfew for 15-18 year olds on social media; ;
- Introduce algorithmic pluralism: allow all users to choose between several recommendation algorithms, similar to media pluralism. ;
- Ensure the human, technical and financial resources to guarantee the effective implementation of the DSA in favour of the protection of minors online; ;
- Strengthen training for professionals and raise awareness among parents and children about the risks of social media on mental health.
A report that goes beyond the TikTok case
Although the parliamentary report focused on TikTok, its recommendations should inspire all social media platforms. The aim is to lay the foundations for a digital environment that truly protects children and young people.
A pioneering association for online child protection and the first trusted reporting organisation designated by Arcom, e-Enfance / 3018 reaffirms its role as a safeguard against the risks posed by digital platforms. Every day, we continue to:
- Raise awareness of responsible digital practices; ;
- Supporting families and young victims of online violence; ;
- Call on public authorities and platforms to strengthen regulation and protections.
And remember: if you come across any offensive or dangerous content on TikTok (or any other digital platform), contact 3018, available 7 days a week by telephone, online chat or via the app: 3018.co.uk
> Learn more about the report
