Von der Leyen Signals New EU Social Media Child Safety Laws

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is escalating the EU's crackdown on social media companies, signalling that new legislation will be introduced to protect children online. The move represents a fresh regulatory push following concerns over the effects of social platforms on minors' mental health and safety.

The EU has already implemented the Digital Services Act and Digital Markets Act to regulate big tech. Von der Leyen's announcement suggests Brussels will go further with child-specific protections, potentially including restrictions on algorithmic content, age verification requirements, or limits on data collection from minors.

The initiative aligns with the EU's broader strategy to position itself as a global leader in tech regulation, contrasting with lighter-touch approaches in the United States.