Von der Leyen proposes under-13 restrictions on social media, games and chatbots
The European Commission president also proposed exploring associate-member status for Canada, with both measures remaining at the proposal stage.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has proposed restricting children under 13 from accessing social media, online games and chatbots.
She outlined the proposal during her annual State of the European Union address to the European Parliament in Strasbourg on 16 September 2026.
The source package does not report how the restriction would be enforced, its legal basis, possible exemptions or an implementation timetable. It has not been presented as enacted European Union law.
Von der Leyen also proposed exploring closer ties between the EU and Canada, including possible associate-member status for Canada. Such a relationship would be distinct from full EU membership.
No formal decision, timetable or legal framework for Canadian associate membership was reported. The proposals now leave their scope and practical terms to be developed.
