NZ’s floated social media ban for under-16s could unite two groups that rarely agree

Per The Conversation, New Zealand is considering a social media ban for under sixteen, with both major political parties broadly aligned on restricting young people's access. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is seeking bipartisan support, mirroring an Australian-style approach. But an unusual coalition of opponents could emerge—from tech and privacy advocates concerned about age verification and surveillance, to disability advocates and queer youth who rely on online spaces for community and support that may not exist offline. If the ban moves forward, critics predict the political divide won't split left from right, but instead pit mainstream solutions for the majority against concerns for those who'd lose vital digital infrastructure.

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