In this episode of The Debate Podcast, we tackle a question that divides parents, policymakers, and young people: should governments ban teens from social media or make platforms safer for them?

Supporters argue that blanket restrictions are a necessary public health measure—protecting adolescent mental health, easing the burden on overwhelmed parents, and holding tech companies accountable. Critics counter that bans undermine family autonomy, could push teens into riskier online spaces, and threaten everyone’s privacy through mandatory age verification. For marginalized young people, losing access could also mean losing a vital source of community and support.