Turkey bans social media access for under-15s

ANKARA: (Web Desk) – Turkey has taken a significant step toward regulating youth access to digital platforms, as its parliament approved a law banning children under 15 from using social media.

According to the state-run Anadolu Agency, the legislation prohibits minors below 15 from creating accounts, while requiring social media companies to implement strict age-verification systems. Broadcaster NTV reported that platforms will also be obligated to act swiftly on harmful content.

The move places Turkey among a growing list of countries tightening controls on young users’ online activity. The law is expected to be signed by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, after which it will take effect six months following its publication in the official gazette.

Turkey’s Foreign Minister Fidan holds talks with PM Shehbaz in Antalya

Under the new rules, social media companies must respond within an hour if notified of emergency situations involving harmful or dangerous content, signaling a stricter regulatory approach toward digital safety.

Globally, governments are increasingly adopting measures to address the risks associated with excessive social media use among children. Australia has already introduced a landmark restriction, barring users under 16 from accessing social platforms.

Meanwhile, France is leading efforts within the European bloc to impose similar limits, working alongside partners such as Denmark, Greece, and Spain. Greece has also announced plans to enforce its own ban on under-15 users, while the European Union is preparing broader policy recommendations.

The growing momentum reflects a global push to safeguard children online, as concerns over digital well-being and exposure to harmful content continue to rise.