Manitoba’s Premier Wab Kinew declared that social media and AI chatbots will be prohibited for youth, marking the introduction of a pioneering law in Canada. Kinew expressed concerns that these platforms are engineered to foster addiction through features like the endless scroll, leading to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.
During an NDP fundraising event in Winnipeg, Kinew criticized social media platforms for prioritizing engagement and profits at the expense of children’s well-being. He highlighted the detrimental impact of these platforms on youth, emphasizing how they promote unrealistic standards and expose children to inappropriate content.
While acknowledging the potential health risks associated with youth social media use, Kinew stressed the need for further research to understand the underlying causes. His government’s initiative precedes similar considerations at the federal level and in other provinces across Canada.
The specifics of Manitoba’s proposed ban, including the targeted age group, enforcement mechanisms, and implementation timeline, were not disclosed by Kinew. The move aligns with Australia’s precedent, where a law mandating social media companies to prevent users under 16 from having accounts was enacted in December.
Tech analyst Carmi Levy noted that Australia’s legislation resulted in the deactivation of millions of youth accounts, although some users shifted their focus to other platforms not covered by the ban. Manitoba’s broader approach includes AI platforms, recognizing their comparable risks to social media.
Following Australia’s lead, Indonesia and Vietnam have implemented their own age restrictions, while France and the European Union are pursuing similar initiatives. The global trend towards age restrictions on social media and AI chatbots is gaining traction, with multiple countries, including Canada, exploring regulatory measures.
Recent non-binding resolutions by the federal Liberals support age restrictions on social media and AI chatbots, reflecting a growing consensus among lawmakers. Provinces like Nova Scotia, Quebec, and Saskatchewan are also contemplating similar bans, underscoring the widespread interest in addressing the challenges posed by digital platforms.