Epic Games CEO warns EU's kids act would harm creativity and digital expression

Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, has voiced strong opposition to the European Union's newly announced Kids Act, calling it "terrible for the next generation of humanity." The regulation, officially unveiled on September 16, aims to restrict children's access to social media and online platforms, but Sweeney argues it would eliminate crucial opportunities for digital creativity and expression.

The EU Kids Act, formally titled "Keeping Internet Digital Spaces Accountable and Trustworthy," imposes a blanket ban on social media accounts for anyone under 13. The regulation covers not just traditional social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, but also "video-sharing platforms, online games, AI chatbots or companions," plus app stores and operating systems. From ages 13 to 15, accounts can be set up under parental supervision with limited features and screen time restrictions. Autonomous accounts without parental consent are permitted from age 15 onward. Some services, including online encyclopedias, educational platforms, and digital news outlets, would be exempt from these restrictions.

EU President Ursula von der Leyen framed the legislation as a protective measure. "Today, our children are engaging with the most sophisticated technologies ever created. Technology that was never created with their wellbeing in mind," she said in a statement. "Our KIDS Act is reversing the burden of proof—it is for platforms to show they are safe by design. And we put parents back in the driving seat, giving them the tools to help their children navigate a safer online world."

Sweeney's objection centers on the creative tools available within modern games. "The apps and games of today are the paintbrushes and tree forts of yesterday," he wrote on X. "Fortnite has Creative Mode, Roblox has Roblox studio, and being a digital creator is in everyone's reach, till politicians take it away." His argument positions user-generated content tools in games as essential platforms for children to develop creative skills and express themselves digitally.

The proposed regulation does not yet have the force of law. It has been submitted to the European Parliament and Council and will enter the legislative approval process. However, recent precedent suggests momentum for such restrictions. Australia, the UK, and some US states have enacted social media bans for minors and online age verification requirements in recent years. The EU has expressed "clear demand for urgent and comprehensive action" on the issue, suggesting the Kids Act may advance through the approval process relatively quickly.

The regulation's scope extends beyond social media to encompass the broader online ecosystem that children use for entertainment, education, and creative expression. The distinction between harmful content exposure and access to creative tools remains a point of contention among industry leaders, policymakers, and child safety advocates.