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WASHINGTON — U.S. diplomats are being encouraged to support the adoption of age-verification measures for online adult content in countries around the world, according to statements from the State Department.
An internal communication described by a media report outlined guidance for diplomats to promote “age assurance” laws and technologies aimed at protecting minors, while also maintaining protections for broader rights. The State Department did not confirm the existence of that document but acknowledged the general policy direction.
“Protecting children from online exploitation and abuse is a top priority for the United States,” a State Department spokesperson said. “We believe these protections should be implemented in ways that are rights-respecting and do not unduly compromise privacy or freedom of expression.
“We favor age assurance that is narrowly tailored, clearly defined, and utilizes privacy-preserving technologies,” the spokesperson continued. “As countries explore frameworks to protect children online, the United States stands ready to engage and encourage that these measures are effective, balanced, and do not impose unintended consequences on fundamental freedoms or technological progress.”
The position aligns with approaches taken by other agencies within the executive branch, including the Federal Trade Commission, which earlier this year supported age-verification measures at the national level and expressed backing for related proposals in Congress, such as the Kids Online Safety Act.
Some observers have linked these policy directions to broader discussions within the current administration about online content regulation, including references to policy frameworks that have proposed stricter controls on internet pornography.
Separately, Russell Vought, director of the Office of Management and Budget, was recorded prior to the 2024 presidential election discussing age verification in a conversation with undercover reporters, during which he described it as a potential “back door” to broader restrictions on legal pornography.
