On August 14, 2026, France’s top constitutional authority overturned a legislative ban on social media access for children under 15. This decision challenges the efforts led by President Emmanuel Macron.

The Constitutional Council identified Article 1 of the legislation as an inappropriate, unnecessary, and disproportionate restriction on freedom of expression and communication for those under 15. Concerns were also raised about privacy issues linked to implementing an age-verification system for all users.

The law was scheduled to take effect on September 1. It aimed to prevent younger users from accessing platforms like TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram, among other restrictions. The French government promoted this measure to protect young people from adverse effects such as anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, and online harassment.

In July, Macron had acknowledged parliamentary support for the legislation and committed to its enforcement by September. Following the ruling, the Elysee Palace announced that Macron directed Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu to develop a new, legally sound draft of the legislation swiftly. This draft must align with both the ruling of the Constitutional Council and the European regulatory framework.

The presidency affirmed Macron’s continued resolve to implement the reform. This initiative is a key focus in the closing years of his presidency. Macron, who celebrates a decade in office next year, cannot pursue a third term due to France’s two consecutive term limit for presidents.

Gabriel Attal, Macron’s former prime minister who supported the proposal, expressed his disappointment following the decision. He acknowledged the ruling and committed to further combating what he termed a “deadly poison for our children.”

The Constitutional Council did not address another aspect of the legislation, which bans mobile phone use in high schools starting September 1. French elementary and middle schools already prohibit student phone use.

There is a growing trend internationally to limit social media access due to its rising concerns over its impact on children.