New Delhi, June 18 -- European Union officials are intensifying their scrutiny of social media platforms amid growing concerns that excessive online engagement is contributing to a worsening mental health crisis among young people. The renewed debate comes as policymakers across Europe push for stricter safeguards, age-verification measures, and new regulations aimed at protecting children from harmful digital experiences.

Speaking during discussions on youth wellbeing and online safety, European Commissioner for Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture and Sport, Glenn Micallef warned that excessive screen time and social media use are among the major factors driving youth mental health challenges among young Europeans. The issue has ...