LAHORE, Pakistan: A Pakistani court has taken up a petition seeking a ban on social media use by children under 16, placing the country within a growing global debate over online safety, regulation, and the impact of digital platforms on young users.
The Lahore High Court has asked the government to clarify its position, as lawmakers and courts worldwide grapple with how to balance child protection with digital access.
The matter was heard by Chief Justice Aalia Neelum, who described the issue as one of public importance and a policy question that requires careful consideration at the government level.
The petition was filed by Aliya Saleem and others through Advocate Shiza Qureshi, urging the court to intervene in what they described as a growing threat to children’s mental, moral, and educational development.
During the proceedings, the petitioner’s counsel argued that unrestricted access to social media platforms exposes children to harmful content, addiction, and psychological risks.
The court was informed that several developed nations have either enacted or are actively considering legislation to restrict social media use among minors.
Advocate Qureshi cited Australia’s decision to impose restrictions on children’s access to social media in December 2025, adding that countries including France, Norway, Malaysia, and New Zealand are in various stages of drafting similar laws. She requested the court to issue directions for a nationwide ban on social media use for children under 16.
Chief Justice Neelum directed a law officer to seek instructions from the federal government and submit a detailed report by February 16, indicating that the court would review the state’s position before proceeding further.
The issue has also gained traction in Pakistan’s parliament. Earlier this month, several senators — including Falak Naz, Fawzia Arshad, Aimal Wali Khan, Saadia Abbas,i and Dilawar Khan — called for closer monitoring of children’s use of social media platforms, particularly for those under 18.
Chairing the session, Senator Sherry Rehman emphasized the need for safeguards and proposed the formation of a special committee to develop protective measures in consultation with relevant ministries.
This is not the first time the Lahore High Court has engaged with the issue. In September, the court issued notices to the federal government and other respondents on a separate petition seeking a ban on Facebook and TikTok for children, highlighting growing judicial attention to digital regulation and child protection.
‘Why this matters globally’
Around the world, governments are increasingly reassessing how social media affects children and teenagers. Australia has already taken legislative action, while the European Union is debating stricter age-verification rules.
The UK is enforcing stronger online safety laws, and several Asian and Pacific nations are exploring limits on algorithmic content targeting minors.
