ANKARA, Turkiye: Turkiye has formally announced a ban on social media use for children under the age of 15, with the new restrictions set to come into effect from November 1 as part of efforts to protect young users from online risks.
The decision was published in the official state journal after parliament approved legislation in April, making Turkiye one of several countries introducing stricter rules on children’s access to digital platforms.
Under the new law, social media companies will be required to implement technical and administrative measures, including age verification systems, to prevent users below the permitted age from accessing their services.
The legislation also states that platforms must not provide services considered likely to create addictive effects among children.
Growing global debate over children’s online safety
Turkiye’s move comes amid a wider international discussion about the impact of social media on young people.
Several countries have introduced or considered similar restrictions, citing concerns over screen addiction, sleep disruption, cyberbullying, online harassment and mental health challenges among children and teenagers.
Australia has already introduced social media restrictions for younger users, while countries including the United Kingdom and France are also considering stronger regulations to protect minors online.
Challenges over implementation
The effectiveness of age restrictions remains a key question as governments attempt to balance child protection with practical enforcement.
Social media platforms have faced increasing pressure to develop reliable age verification systems while protecting users’ privacy and personal data.
Technology experts have also debated whether bans alone can address online harms or whether broader digital education and parental guidance are needed.
While authorities have presented the measure as a child safety initiative, rights groups have raised concerns over wider restrictions on digital freedoms in Turkiye.
The latest regulation places Turkiye among a growing number of countries attempting to reshape how children interact with online platforms, as governments worldwide debate the future of digital safety and freedom of expression.
