Pinterest’s CEO, Bill Ready, has called for a ban on social media platforms for users under 16 in a new Time op-ed. He argues that today's youth are 'living through the largest social experiment in history,' with unfiltered access leading to increased rates of depression and anxiety.

Ready contends that tech companies have given insufficient forethought to the consequences their platforms can have on children, praising Australia's ban for minors as a model. Pinterest itself has successfully navigated this issue by banning users under 16 from accessing social features on its site, showing that such measures can be implemented effectively.

The movement towards restricting young people’s access to social media is gaining momentum globally. Countries like Malaysia, Spain, and Indonesia have announced bans, while France and Germany are also considering similar policies. U.S. states are also exploring ways to limit minors’ exposure to social platforms.

However, Ready's call for a ban has sparked debate within the tech industry. While lawmakers show no signs of backing down, critics argue that such measures could stifle innovation and freedom of expression online.

“When we make excuses for not acting in the public’s best interest, tech CEOs sound like 20th-century tobacco executives who had to be shamed and sued into submission,” Ready wrote, emphasizing the urgent need for action to protect young users from potential harm.