French Lawmaker Calls for Investigation into TikTok’s Impact on Minors
The head of the French Parliamentary Committee investigating TikTok’s psychological effects on young users announced on Thursday that he has urged a criminal inquiry into the video-sharing platform, citing concerns it endangers minors’ lives.
“The evidence is clear. TikTok is putting the health and safety of its users at serious risk, which is why I’ve decided to escalate this to the Paris prosecutors,” remarked Arthur Delaporte, a Socialist MP, during an interview with Francefo. This committee’s investigation began back in March.
Delaporte also suggested that TikTok’s representatives might have committed perjury by claiming ignorance during their meetings with the committee. “They said they didn’t know about the risks involved,” he noted, which raises significant questions.
Now, it’s up to the prosecutor to determine if an official investigation will be initiated.
A spokesperson for TikTok responded, saying, “We adamantly reject the committee’s misleading portrayal aimed at placing undue blame on us for broader issues affecting the industry and society.” The spokesperson further defended TikTok, stating the platform has strict safety policies in place designed to protect teenagers and their families.
The committee was originally set up to delve into TikTok’s psychological impact on youth. This investigation follows a 2024 lawsuit filed by seven families who claimed their children were exposed to harmful content that led to suicidal behavior.
One of the committee’s recommendations is to ban children under 15 from using social media altogether. For older teens aged 15 to 18, there are suggestions to enforce curfews, limiting social media access from 10 PM to 8 AM.
Across the globe, platforms like TikTok are under scrutiny regarding how they manage their content. Various countries, including Australia and parts of Europe, are exploring initiatives to restrict minors’ access to social media.
In light of tragic events, such as a recent stabbing incident in a French school, President Emmanuel Macron expressed in June his support for EU regulations that would prohibit social media use for those under 15.
