Manitoba to ban social media and AI chatbots for children

 

 

Manitoba is set to become the first province in Canada to ban social media and AI chatbots for children. Premier Wab Kinnew has announced that this important move is to protect the mental health of children and prevent online exploitation. Manitoba will completely ban the use of social media platforms and AI chatbots for children. With this, Manitoba will become the first province in Canada to introduce such a law. Wab Kinnew has made it clear that child safety is his biggest responsibility.

The premier pointed out that social media use increases anxiety, depression and suicidal tendencies in children. These platforms are designed to enslave users. He warned that social media is leading to trafficking of girls and other exploitation. The goal is to free children from screens and provide them with an environment to play outside.

Last December, Australia banned social media for those under the age of 16. Other Canadian provinces, including Ontario and Saskatchewan, are considering similar measures. It is unclear what age groups the ban would apply to. The challenges of regulating companies operating globally and the technical barriers to accurate age verification are major challenges. However, surveys show that a majority of Canadian parents (about 70%) support the move. More debate on the issue is expected in the legislature in the coming weeks.