OTTAWA — Public support for restricting children’s access to digital platforms is surging in Canada, as a new study reveals that a significant majority of the population favors a ban on social media and AI chatbots for those under the age of 16. According to a survey conducted by Leger, approximately 70% of Canadians support prohibiting minors from using platforms like Instagram and TikTok, while 69% back similar restrictions for AI services such as ChatGPT. The findings reflect a growing national anxiety, with over 80% of respondents expressing deep concern regarding the negative psychological and social impacts these technologies have on children and adolescents.
The push for regulation comes amid a backdrop of high-profile legal and safety concerns involving tech giants. Heightened public apprehension has been fueled by recent U.S. court rulings against Meta and Google for features deemed harmful to youth, as well as a chilling incident in British Columbia where a suspect reportedly utilized ChatGPT in connection with a shooting. While some parents of children under 16 expressed reservations about a total ban—with 27% showing slight disagreement—the vast majority still align with the need for stricter controls. This sentiment follows the global precedent set by Australia, which became the first nation to implement such a ban last December.
The Canadian federal government is currently preparing the “Online Harms Bill,” a piece of legislation aimed at creating a safer digital environment. While the bill primarily focuses on social media, there is growing internal discussion about expanding its scope to include AI chatbots. The Leger survey indicates that 55% of Canadians believe it is the federal government’s direct responsibility to enforce these age-based restrictions. However, public confidence in the industry’s ability to comply remains low, with 60% of respondents doubting whether tech companies can or will effectively implement these age-verification measures.
Despite the strong lean toward prohibition, the survey also highlighted a nuanced debate regarding the benefits of technology. Roughly 40% of participants voiced concerns that a blanket ban on AI services might inadvertently hinder children’s learning capabilities and stifle their creativity in an increasingly digital world. As the federal government moves forward with its legislative agenda, policymakers will be forced to balance these educational concerns against the overwhelming public demand for protection from online risks.
