HANOI, Vietnam: Vietnam is planning new rules that would require social media platforms to stop users under 16 from posting content, commenting, or reacting to posts. This is part of a wider global effort to limit social media use by children.

Under the proposed rules, social media accounts for children under 16 would need to be registered using the details of a parent or legal guardian. That adult would be responsible for monitoring what the child sees and how much time they spend on these platforms.

Social media companies would also be required to use technical systems to identify child users and make sure they only see content suitable for their age.

Deputy Culture Minister Phan Tam said that the main goal was not to ban or heavily restrict children's access to social media. He explained that the aim was to ensure that when children use these platforms, they are in an environment appropriate for their age and protected from harmful risks.

The draft rules also say that platforms must give the highest level of privacy protection to children's accounts. They must also actively detect, warn about, and block harmful content, including violence, pornography, gambling, drugs, suicide, and other dangerous material.

This proposal shows growing concern among governments around the world about online safety and the effects of social media and harmful content on children's mental health.

Recently, lawmakers in France approved a ban on social media use for children under 15. Australia was the first country to introduce such a ban, and several other countries are considering similar steps.

In addition to social media, Vietnam is also planning new limits on online gaming for children.

Game companies would have to check users' ages, register accounts for children under 16 through a parent or guardian, and limit playtime to no more than 60 minutes per day for games from the same company.

The draft decree is not final yet and may still be changed before it is officially approved.