Turkiye Bans Social Media Use for Children Under 15 From November 1
New law requires age verification and safeguards against addictive online services as countries tighten digital protections for children
Turkiye introduces a social media ban for children under 15, effective November 1.
Turkiye has formally announced a ban on social media use for children under the age of 15, with the new restrictions scheduled to take effect on November 1. The move places the country among a growing number of nations introducing legislation to protect young people from the potential harms of online platforms.
The decision was published in the official state journal on Saturday, following the adoption of legislation by parliament in April.
Under the new law, social media providers must implement appropriate technical and administrative safeguards, including age-verification measures, to protect young users. The legislation also states that services likely to have an addictive effect on children must not be offered to them.
Turkiye’s decision comes amid an international push to strengthen online safety regulations for children and teenagers. Australia has introduced restrictions on social media access for children, while Britain and France are also pursuing measures aimed at limiting young people’s exposure to potential digital risks.
Supporters of such restrictions have raised concerns about screen addiction, sleep deprivation, online bullying and eating disorders among children and adolescents. Governments are increasingly examining the responsibilities of technology companies in creating safer digital environments for younger users.
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However, the restrictions come against a wider backdrop of concerns over freedom of expression in Turkiye. Rights groups have criticised measures affecting LGBTQ communities, media organisations and political opposition figures.
In recent weeks, numerous social media accounts have also been blocked, adding to the debate over online regulation, digital rights and government oversight.
The new restrictions are expected to intensify discussions about balancing child protection with access to online communication and freedom of expression as countries continue to review their digital policies.
