Washington CORE recently spoke with Jeremy Godfrey, Executive Chairperson of Coimisiún na Meán, Ireland’s independent media regulator, to examine the growing international debate over how governments should protect children on social media without unnecessarily restricting their rights and access to positive online experiences.

Drawing on more than 30 years of experience in technology and media regulation, Godfrey discussed concerns surrounding Australia-style blanket social media bans, including the risk that children may circumvent restrictions and become less willing to seek help when they encounter harm online. He also highlighted alternatives such as a “presumptive ban,” age-based access models, privacy-preserving age assurance, and greater responsibility for platforms to design safer services for young users.

The conversation offers timely insight into Europe’s evolving approach to children’s online safety and the balance between regulation, platform accountability, privacy, and children’s rights.

The full conversation is available by paid subscription through Nikkei Governance. You can read more about it in Japanese.