Canada’s youth social media ban could face charter challenge

Canada’s proposed ban on social media for children under 16 could face a legal challenge over potential violations of Charter rights, experts say.

The federal government’s Bill C-34 would restrict children under 16 from accessing social media platforms, with some possible exemptions for platforms that meet government requirements.

Legal experts say the legislation could raise concerns around freedom of expression and privacy, particularly because social media has become an important way for young people to participate in public and political discussions.

The Canadian Civil Liberties Association has also raised concerns about how platforms would verify users’ ages and the privacy implications of those measures.

The debate comes as countries around the world consider age restrictions on social media. Australia introduced a nationwide ban for users under 16 in 2025.

If Bill C-34 becomes law, experts say a Charter challenge could ultimately test whether the restrictions are constitutionally justified.