Greece has announced plans to ban access to social media for under-15s, becoming the latest European country to restrict children's exposure to online platforms. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis stated that the initiative aims to tackle growing anxiety and sleep issues among young people, as well as addressing the 'addictive design' of social media. The restriction will take effect in January 2026. This regulatory action follows Australia's lead, which became the first country to mandate the removal of accounts held by users under 16. France, Austria, and Spain are exploring similar restrictions.
The UK government has also launched a consultation regarding a ban for under-16s, with other nations like Ireland and Denmark considering similar measures. Critics argue that blanket bans might be ineffective and could isolate vulnerable teenagers, with Reddit challenging Australia's regulations in court. Mitsotakis underlined the importance of addressing the negative effects of constant online engagement, stating that many young people feel overwhelmed by social media pressures. He aims to promote a balance between technology's positive aspects and its potential dangers, pushing for a common EU framework for the protection of minors online, including mandatory age verification and re-checks every six months.
Recent studies have shown that social media can significantly affect mental health, leading to discussions in multiple countries about how to protect youth from its adverse effects. In March, a landmark trial in the US found Meta and YouTube liable for a substantial decline in a young woman's mental health linked to their platforms. As the dialogue around social media's impact intensifies, Greece's regulatory measures mark a significant step in the ongoing effort to safeguard youth in the digital age.
The UK government has also launched a consultation regarding a ban for under-16s, with other nations like Ireland and Denmark considering similar measures. Critics argue that blanket bans might be ineffective and could isolate vulnerable teenagers, with Reddit challenging Australia's regulations in court. Mitsotakis underlined the importance of addressing the negative effects of constant online engagement, stating that many young people feel overwhelmed by social media pressures. He aims to promote a balance between technology's positive aspects and its potential dangers, pushing for a common EU framework for the protection of minors online, including mandatory age verification and re-checks every six months.
Recent studies have shown that social media can significantly affect mental health, leading to discussions in multiple countries about how to protect youth from its adverse effects. In March, a landmark trial in the US found Meta and YouTube liable for a substantial decline in a young woman's mental health linked to their platforms. As the dialogue around social media's impact intensifies, Greece's regulatory measures mark a significant step in the ongoing effort to safeguard youth in the digital age.
