Mexico opens national debate on regulating social media and AI for minors

President Claudia Sheinbaum announced a national debate to regulate social media, artificial intelligence, and cellphone use among minors, with the goal of presenting a legislative initiative to Congress in the next session. The government emphasizes it is not about prohibition but about informed regulation and responsible use. Source: Infobae, Milenio, Jornada

What is proposed

The SEP, led by Mario Delgado, will hold three national forums in Nuevo León, Chiapas, and Guerrero in August-September 2026. Notably, 16 states already restrict cellphone use in basic education schools — including Aguascalientes, CDMX, Nuevo León, and others across party lines. Source: Milenio, Heraldo The subsecretary Ricardo Villanueva highlighted that 114 educational systems worldwide have some form of regulation, ranging from school-level rules to nationwide bans. Source: Excélsior, Jornada

The concerns

Data from INEGI shows that 86.1% of Mexicans aged 6+ use the internet, and 97.6% of youth 15-24 are connected. Source: Heraldo UNICEF reports that one in eight adolescent internet users in Mexico experienced technology-facilitated sexual exploitation, with 67% occurring exclusively online. Source: Heraldo The debate also touches on political concerns over disinformation and foreign interference, with Sheinbaum citing research on bots and paid accounts linked to international ultra-right groups. Source: Infobae

What comes next

The government plans to hold weekly discussions during morning conferences for a month, and then present a proposal to Congress in September. Additionally, a National Week of Traditional Games will be promoted to reduce screen dependence. Source: Excélsior, Infobae The process aims to build consensus among experts, parents, and youth, learning from international models like Australia's age limits and France's restrictions. Source: Heraldo