The proposal, which still requires parliamentary approval, includes mandatory age-verification systems that go beyond simple self-declaration and introduces direct accountability for company executives over illegal or harmful content shared on their platforms. The reforms would also criminalise the manipulation of algorithms used to amplify unlawful material.
Sánchez said the government also intends to create mechanisms to monitor how digital platforms contribute to social polarisation and the spread of hate, although details on how this system would operate have not yet been disclosed. In addition, Spanish authorities plan to investigate and prosecute crimes linked to major platforms and artificial intelligence tools.
Spain’s initiative follows Australia’s introduction of the world’s first nationwide ban on social media for under-16s, a move closely watched by other governments. France, Denmark and Austria are considering similar measures, while the UK has launched a consultation on whether to impose age-based restrictions.
Social media companies have pushed back against the proposals, arguing that age bans are difficult to enforce, risk isolating vulnerable young people and may prove ineffective. Despite this, Sánchez stressed that governments can no longer accept claims that technology is neutral, signalling a broader shift towards stricter digital regulation across Europe.
