French Constitutional Council strikes down law banning under‑15s from social media
The ruling halts a major child‑protection measure, affecting age‑verification requirements and privacy protections for minors on social platforms.
ADTP Regulatory Watch· August 14, 2026· European Commission
ImpactModerate 42
Type🔨 Court Ruling
Statusdecidedcase outcome
JurisdictionEU-FR
What happened
On 14 August 2026 the French Constitutional Council invalidated Article 1 of the Act that would have barred minors under 15 from accessing online social media. The Council found the ban disproportionate, lacking individual assessment, and missing privacy safeguards for age‑verification. As a result the provision cannot be promulgated and will not enter into force.
Why it matters for trust and compliance
Its status is decided. The case has an outcome that others may cite.
The ruling halts a major child‑protection measure, affecting age‑verification requirements and privacy protections for minors on social platforms.
It relates to DSA. The regulations library explains what that law requires.
Who is affected
technologycontrollerprocessorplatformFrench government
Recommended actions
Check that privacy notices describe the practices this addresses.
Review age assurance and protections for minors' data.