Australia Bans Social Media for Under-16s: Should Muslims Follow Suit?

Australia’s recent decision to ban social media for children under 16 has sent ripples across the globe, sparking debates about the role of technology in shaping young minds. While the law aims to shield children from the harmful effects of online platforms, it raises critical questions for Muslim parents: Should we take similar steps to protect our youth, grounded in the principles of Islam and informed by the realities of the modern digital world?

This article explores the nuances of Australia’s bold move, its implications, and why Muslim parents must seriously consider the potential risks of unchecked social media exposure to future generations.

Australia’s Social Media Ban: What It Entails

Australia’s legislation requires social media platforms to take “reasonable steps” to verify users’ ages and prohibit those under 16 from opening accounts. Platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, and X are expected to comply or face hefty fines of up to AUD 49.5 million ($32 million).

Key exemptions include:

• Messaging apps like WhatsApp and Messenger Kids.
• Educational platforms such as YouTube.
• Gaming platforms that do not require social media interaction.

The government justifies the ban as a measure to protect young people from exposure to harmful content (e.g., violence, self-harm, cyberbullying), addiction, and mental health issues while giving them more time to develop self-awareness and identity offline.

Dangers of Social Media for Children

Muslim parents must ask themselves: Are we adequately protecting our children from the harms of social media? Here are some reasons Australia’s decision resonates deeply with Islamic principles:

Social media is flooded with content that contradicts the moral and spiritual framework of Islam:

• Immodesty and Vulgarity: Platforms frequently promote indecent images and entertainment that desensitize users to haram practices.
• Materialism and Vanity: Influencers often glorify wealth, luxury, and superficial beauty, drawing young Muslims away from the simplicity encouraged by Islam.
• Desensitization to Sin: Repeated exposure to un-Islamic behaviors normalizes them, dulling the heart’s sensitivity to wrongdoing.

Islam emphasizes the well-being of the mind and soul. The Qur’an encourages moderation and warns against self-destruction (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:195). Social media directly challenges this:

• Anxiety and Depression: Studies have linked excessive screen time with rising mental health disorders, particularly among teens.
• Comparison Culture: Platforms like Instagram foster unrealistic comparisons, eroding self-esteem and gratitude for Allah’s blessings.
• Addiction: The endless scroll is designed to trap users, making it harder for children to engage in meaningful activities.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) warned against harming others, saying:

“A Muslim is the one from whose tongue and hands the Muslims are safe.” (Sahih al-Bukhari).

However, social media often becomes a breeding ground for:

• Cyberbullying leads to severe emotional distress.
• Peer pressure to engage in challenges, trends, or behaviors that contradict Islamic teachings.

Social media steals time and attention, weakening relationships and Islamic obligations:

• Family Bonds: Children often isolate themselves, replacing meaningful family interactions with shallow online connections.
• Ibadah (Worship): Constant notifications and distractions detract from prayer, Quranic study, and reflection.

Islamic Guidance on Protecting the Youth

Islam places immense responsibility on parents to nurture and guide their children. The Qur’an reminds us:

“O you who have believed, protect yourselves and your families from a Fire whose fuel is people and stones…” (Surah At-Tahrim 66:6).

Parents serve as the first line of defense in shaping their children’s character and choices. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

“Each of you is a shepherd, and each of you is responsible for his flock.” (Sahih al-Bukhari).

This responsibility includes:

1. Shielding children from harmful influences.
2. Teaching them Islamic values and principles.
3. Preparing them to navigate the challenges of modern life with faith and wisdom.

Should Muslims Follow Suit?

Muslim parents could consider implementing similar restrictions to Australia’s law, either at the family or community level, to:

1. Protect Children from Harm: Shielding children from immodesty, bullying, and mental health issues aligns with Islamic principles.
2. Encourage Time for Growth: Limiting access to social media allows children to develop essential life skills, build real-world relationships, and deepen their connection with Allah.

However, outright bans might also pose difficulties:

• Technological Workarounds: Tech-savvy teens may bypass restrictions.
• Isolation from Beneficial Content: Many platforms offer educational resources and Islamic content that can inspire young Muslims.
• Privacy Concerns: Age verification methods like facial recognition or ID submissions may infringe on family privacy.

A Balanced Approach

Instead of a blanket ban, Muslim parents and communities can adopt a more nuanced approach:

1. Age-Appropriate Restrictions

• Delay access to social media until children are mature enough to handle its pressures responsibly.
• Start with family-friendly, moderated platforms.

2. Parental Monitoring

• Use parental controls to supervise online activities.

• Have open discussions about online dangers and Islamic ethics.

3. Encourage Alternatives

Fill the void left by restricted social media access with meaningful activities:

• Islamic Learning: Quranic classes, Islamic lectures, or community service projects.
• Hobbies and Sports: Encourage physical activities and creative pursuits.
• Real-World Friendships: Organize gatherings where children can bond in a halal environment.

4. Promote Digital Literacy

Prepare children for the realities of the digital age by teaching:

• Cyber Safety: Recognizing scams, avoiding harmful content, and practicing online modesty.
• Islamic Principles Online: Using social media responsibly as a platform for dawah and halal interactions.

Lessons from Global Examples

The ban prioritizes children’s well-being but raises questions about enforcement and the privacy risks of age verification technologies.

Rather than outright bans, Saudi Arabia enforces strict content moderation laws and fosters Islamic alternatives, such as Quran apps and Islamic education platforms.

The UK’s Age Appropriate Design Code emphasizes protecting children’s privacy and well-being while allowing limited, supervised access to online platforms.

The challenges of modern technology demand that Muslim parents take an active role in protecting their children. While Australia’s bold ban offers valuable lessons, Muslims should consider a balanced, faith-driven approach tailored to their unique cultural and religious needs.

Ultimately, safeguarding the next generation is not just about restricting access to harmful influences but also about instilling a strong Islamic foundation. By combining restrictions, education, and alternative activities, Muslim parents can prepare their children to navigate the digital world with confidence and faith.

What steps are you taking to protect your children from the harms of social media? Share your thoughts in the comments below.