ANKARA: Türkiye’s parliament has approved legislation banning children under 15 from using social media platforms, marking the latest effort by governments worldwide to curb the impact of online content on young users.
According to state media, the new law will prohibit those under 15 from creating social media accounts, while digital platforms will be required to implement strict age-verification systems to enforce the rule.
The measure is expected to be signed into law by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, whose ruling party introduced the legislation. Once approved, it will come into effect six months after its publication in the official gazette.
Under the new framework, major social media companies will also be obligated to act swiftly in response to harmful content. Platforms must intervene within an hour if notified of an “emergency” situation involving potentially damaging material.
Accessing social media
The move places Türkiye among a growing number of countries introducing restrictions aimed at protecting young users online.
Australia recently implemented a landmark ban preventing those under 16 from accessing social media, while France is advancing similar proposals with support from European partners such as Denmark, Greece and Spain.
European Union officials have also indicated that recommendations for broader regional action are being prepared, reflecting rising concern over the effects of digital platforms on children and teenagers.
The legislation underscores increasing global momentum to regulate social media usage among minors, as policymakers seek to address issues ranging from harmful content exposure to mental health risks associated with excessive online activity.
