High Court Challenge to Social Media Ban
Reddit has initiated a challenge in Australia's High Court against a new law prohibiting individuals under 16 from holding social media accounts. This legislation, which became effective on Wednesday, mandates that ten social media platforms, including Reddit, enforce this age restriction for Australian users.
Government and Platform Positions
Proponents of the ban, including the Australian government, have stated that the measure is essential for safeguarding children from potentially harmful online content and algorithmic influences.
Reddit, while complying with the age restriction, has stated in its legal challenge that the policy raises concerns regarding privacy and political rights. The platform asserted on its website that there are more effective methods to achieve the shared objective of youth protection.
Australia's Communications Minister, Anika Wells, previously stated the government's resolve regarding the policy, indicating that legal challenges would not deter them.
Previous Legal Action and Criticisms
This is the second legal challenge against the new law. Earlier, two 15-year-old individuals from New South Wales filed a case, which the High Court has agreed to review next year. Their argument contends that the social media ban infringes upon the "implied freedom of communication on governmental and political matters," thereby being unconstitutional. One of the plaintiffs, Macey Newland, stated that "democracy doesn't start at 16 as this law says it will."
Additionally, some critics have questioned the practicality and efficacy of a comprehensive prohibition, suggesting it may not be a wise approach.