Mexican authorities are exploring restrictions on social media use by minors, following examples set by Australia and several European countries.
Public Education Secretary Mario Delgado said the government has begun consultations with teachers, parents, and civil society groups to develop a framework by June that addresses concerns about children’s screen time and exposure to harmful online content.
Australia has already prohibited children under 16 from using platforms like TikTok, YouTube, Snapchat, and Instagram, imposing heavy fines for violations.
France has introduced a similar ban for under-15s, pending Senate approval.
Other countries, including Britain, Spain, Denmark, India, Indonesia, and Portugal, are considering comparable measures.
Delgado emphasised the government’s responsibility in guiding children’s digital experiences, noting that tech companies prioritise engagement over safety, leaving minors vulnerable to cyberbullying, violent content, and other online risks.
Social media firms such as TikTok and Meta maintain age restrictions and safety settings, but implementation challenges persist.
The planned Mexican regulations aim to encourage a “responsible, critical, and conscious” digital culture, rather than outright prohibit social media.
Delgado highlighted that input from parents, teachers, and local communities will shape the approach.
While Mexico is not currently planning to ban smartphones in schools, the government is closely monitoring international trends and the impact of existing bans in countries like Australia, Brazil, and Chile, where cyberbullying has declined and student focus has improved.
