Manitoba becomes first Canadian province to propose social media and AI chatbot ban for youth
Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew announced Saturday that the province will ban youth from using social media platforms and AI chatbots - a first in Canada. The premier did not specify the age threshold, enforcement mechanism, or implementation timeline.
Kinew said platforms are deliberately engineered to create addiction through "infinite scroll" mechanics, driving engagement and revenue while contributing to youth mental health problems including anxiety and depression.
"They're doing these very awful things to kids all in the name of a few likes, all in the name of more engagement, and all in the name of money," Kinew said at an NDP fundraising gala in Winnipeg. "More money for a group of rich tech bros who already have a ton."
The premier identified three specific design harms: amplifying social comparisons against artificial standards, amplifying outrage, and exposing youth to content they are not developmentally ready to process.
What research shows
Youth social media use has been linked to reduced sleep, attention problems, and long-term mental health issues. Academics say more research is needed to establish direct causation.
How this compares globally
Australia enacted the world's first social media age ban in December, requiring platforms to prevent anyone under 16 from holding accounts. Companies face fines up to $48.8 million CAD for non-compliance. The ban applies to TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, X, Snapchat, Twitch, Kick, and YouTube.
Early data shows nearly five million Australian youth accounts were deactivated within a month of implementation. However, some youth migrated to platforms not covered by the ban, including AI services.
Indonesia and Vietnam have since adopted similar restrictions. France is advancing legislation targeting users under 15, and the European Union is developing an age verification app for online platforms.
Why Manitoba included AI
Tech analyst Carmi Levy said Manitoba's approach is broader than Australia's because it recognizes AI platforms pose risks equal to or greater than social media. Australia's ban did not include AI chatbots, creating a loophole.
"At the same time, we also have evidence that kids are simply shifting their attention to other platforms that were not included in the ban," Levy said.
Federal and provincial momentum
Canada's heritage minister has said the federal government is "very seriously" considering age restrictions. Non-binding resolutions at the federal Liberals' party convention earlier this month called for restrictions on both social media and AI chatbots.
Lawmakers in Nova Scotia, Quebec, and Saskatchewan are also exploring similar measures.
For government professionals tasked with policy development or implementation, understanding the technology involved is essential. Resources like the AI Learning Path for Policy Makers can help build the technical literacy needed to design and enforce effective regulations. Those new to AI fundamentals may benefit from Generative AI and LLM Courses.
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