The UK’s Online Safety Act, now in force from 25 July 2025, introduces a sweeping framework aiming to shield children from illegal content and age‑inappropriate material. Platforms must conduct risk assessments, implement robust age verification for pornography and self-harm content, and swiftly remove illegal material under Ofcom’s codes of practice. Proponents argue these measures are essential to curb youth exposure to harmful online content.
Free Thought & Expression: Psychological Impacts
Academic research highlights that even lawful harm can chill speech. A UK survey found that women are significantly more fearful of expressing political views online (approx. 23%) than men (approx. 40%), due to online harassment and abuse.
The Act’s burdens like invasive verification, content filtering, and platform over-compliance may disproportionately silence vulnerable voices. So while intended to protect minors, these mechanisms may actually suppress democratic discourse and thought.
UK’s Online Safety Act [part 4]
The Promise: Protecting Children Online
The UK’s Online Safety Act, now in force from 25 July 2025, introduces a sweeping framework aiming to shield children from illegal content and age‑inappropriate material. Platforms must conduct risk assessments, implement robust age verification for pornography and self-harm content, and swiftly remove illegal material under Ofcom’s codes of practice. Proponents argue these measures are essential to curb youth exposure to harmful online content.
Free Thought & Expression: Psychological Impacts
Academic research highlights that even lawful harm can chill speech. A UK survey found that women are significantly more fearful of expressing political views online (approx. 23%) than men (approx. 40%), due to online harassment and abuse.
The Act’s burdens like invasive verification, content filtering, and platform over-compliance may disproportionately silence vulnerable voices. So while intended to protect minors, these mechanisms may actually suppress democratic discourse and thought.
Protect Kids - Preserve Rights - Promote Thought.