YouTube has publicly pushed back against the UK government’s decision to include the platform in a planned ban on social media access for under-16s. The company says YouTube is more than just social media, it’s a useful place where kids and teens learn, watch educational videos, and explore their interests. YouTube called itself a “vital resource” The UK government says the ban aims to protect young people from harmful content But YouTube argues that banning kids from the platform could push them to less safe websites instead.