Amnesty International has criticized a recent ban as an “ineffective quick fix,” arguing it won’t effectively safeguard children.

Damini Satija, director of Amnesty Tech, emphasized that the most successful strategy for protecting minors online involves comprehensive regulatory measures, stringent data protection laws, and improved design of social media platforms.

“We need robust safeguards to ensure that social media platforms halt their harmful practices of prioritizing user engagement over safety, often exploiting personal data,” Satija stated.

She acknowledged that while the platforms’ operations can be detrimental to young users, it is crucial to uphold children’s rights to self-expression, information access, and participation in digital spaces.

Satija further pointed out that many youngsters are likely to find ways around these restrictions. “A ban simply means they will continue to face the same dangers, but out of sight, putting them at even greater risk,” she warned.

“The Australian government must empower young people with education and tools to navigate social media safely.

“It must also put pressure on social media platforms to stop putting profit over the safety of users. We must build a pathway towards a digitally safe society, relying on regulation as one of the tools at our disposal.”