KUALA LUMPUR — Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications has unveiled a draft plan calling for tighter age verification on social media platforms, addressing mounting concerns over youth addiction, cyberbullying, and exposure to harmful content.
The ministry stressed that “it would be undesirable to introduce a blanket age-based restriction like those being adopted overseas, given the role of social media as an important communication tool,” according to Japan Today.
Under the proposals, platforms would need to evaluate and disclose potential risks associated with their services and implement safeguards for younger users. The Children and Families Agency will decide on concrete measures and whether legal amendments are required after the final report is submitted this summer.
Currently, platforms such as X and Instagram set a minimum age of 13, but verification depends solely on self-reported data, making it easy for underage users to circumvent rules.
Other countries have already taken firmer action. Australia last year imposed the world’s first complete ban on social media use for children under 16, citing risks to mental and physical health.
Indonesia followed with similar restrictions in March, while France now requires parental consent for under-15s to open accounts.
Closer to home, Malaysia’s Online Safety Act 2025 obliges foreign service providers to appoint local representatives and reinforces protections against harmful online content.
While not a full ban, the legislation reflects a regional trend toward stricter digital regulation.
Japan’s strategy remains measured, seeking to protect youth while acknowledging social media’s role as an essential tool for communication and support networks. – April 23, 2026