Andorran government advances laws to shield minors from online risks, including age-restricted social media

The Andorran government is advancing legislative changes to protect minors from online risks, including a proposed ban on social media access for those under 16 and dedicated SIM cards for children.

Minister of Public Function and Digital Transformation Marc Rossell has said the executive will submit amendments to the Qualified Law on the Rights of Children and Adolescents to the General Council by late February or early March. These reforms, still in development, rest on four pillars to treat online protection as a core right. Rossell seeks wide parliamentary support for quick passage, citing approaches in Spain and France alongside global expert advice.

One central proposal requires minors to use specific SIM cards, potentially effective next month if approved swiftly. Separately, Penal Code revisions will add penalties for underage social media use. Government spokesperson Guillem Casal, after Wednesday's Council of Ministers, noted work has intensified since autumn, when Head of Government Xavier Espot prioritised child digital safety. "We're not reacting to recent events but following a structured process," Casal said, in line with European concerns. He added that bans must be practical and enforceable: "There's no worse remedy than introducing a ban that can't be enforced." Justice and Interior Minister Ester Molné oversees the Penal Code changes for grave digital crimes, building on the Digital Wellbeing Centre's guidance.

The Official College of Psychologists of Andorra (Copsia) has praised the initiative but called for a broader strategy beyond rules alone, including education, family support and psychological aid to avoid symbolic gestures. The 16-year limit makes sense amid emotional and social vulnerabilities, they said, though chronological age does not always match maturity—requiring adult oversight, digital training and prevention. Copsia warned bans could backfire if easily bypassed, fostering hidden use or eroding trust, and stressed complementary steps like critical thinking education and platform accountability. They reported more consultations on screen overuse, sleep issues, low self-esteem, cyberbullying and harmful content exposure, where networks amplify existing problems.

Jordi Ubach of the National Cybersecurity Agency said details await final legislation, with enforcement drawing from neighbours. "AI can help cheats but also detect them," he noted, urging monitoring of regional models.

Susagna Venable, president of the Parents' Association of the Andorran School (AMPAEA), welcomed the move but urged proven models, citing Australia's mixed results. She highlighted a pilot banning phones during school hours at Encamp's secondary school, which parents support for boosting interaction and focus. Venable stressed family education on apps and risks, noting a generational gap where children outpace parents: "We need to catch up to know what's available."

Enforcement methods and timelines remain unspecified.