Mexico Explores Ways to Regulate Social Media for Children

Mexico is looking at ways to set rules for how children and teenagers use social media. President Claudia Sheinbaum has been holding talks with experts about the dangers of apps like Instagram and TikTok. She wants the whole country — not just the government — to be part of the conversation. Other countries, like Australia and Brazil, have already taken steps to protect kids online.

For several weeks, President Sheinbaum has been inviting experts to her daily press conference to talk about social media's effects on young people. One guest was Jonathan Haidt, a social psychologist and author of a book called 'The Anxious Generation.' His book argues that heavy smartphone use has caused a mental health crisis among children. These conversations have helped bring national attention to the issue.

By the end of August, the Mexican government plans to start talks with elementary and high school teachers. One idea being discussed is banning mobile phones in classrooms across the country. Some states in Mexico have already done this. Leaders also want to find the best ways to limit how students use social media.

President Sheinbaum made it clear that she does not want the government to act alone. She said on August 17 that she wants all political parties and society to be part of the discussion. She is also trying to make sure no one accuses her of trying to censor, or silence, social media. She stressed that new rules would not become law overnight.

Governments around the world are putting stricter rules on children's use of social media. They say these platforms are built to be addictive and can expose kids to harmful content and cyberbullying. Leaders are also worried about the effect social media has on young people's mental and physical health. Mexico is joining a growing list of countries taking this issue seriously.

Australia passed a law that took effect in December 2025, requiring platforms to stop users under 16 from having accounts. France passed a similar law for users under 15 in 2026, but a court struck it down last week. Brazil requires platforms to use age checks, safer settings, and parental controls. Last week, Brazil also ordered the chat app Discord to stop livestreaming after a teenager's death was reportedly broadcast on the platform.