Greece Plans Social Media Block for Under-15s Nationwide
Greece Plans Social Media Block for Under-15s Nationwide
Greece moves to curb teen social media use, citing mental health concerns; Parliament could approve a January rollout.
Greece is moving to ban social media use for anyone under 15, a policy that would require major platforms to block access for minors and apply nationwide if approved by parliament. Officially, the plan is framed as a measure to protect young people from online harms and to reduce anxiety and sleep problems linked to heavy screen time.
The move mirrors a growing trend across Australia and parts of Europe to tighten controls on how youths engage with social networks. Proponents argue that restrictions could shield children from addictive design features and help establish healthier digital habits from a young age.
Details of the proposal include age-based restrictions and enforcement mechanisms aimed at platforms, with supporters saying the policy would create a safer online environment. Critics warn of potential overreach and raise questions about digital literacy and the role of families in guiding online use. Parliament is expected to debate the plan, and if lawmakers back it, a January implementation could follow.
Education officials and family groups see the push as a catalyst for broader conversations about safe tech use, while tech companies will be watching closely for how the policy might affect offerings, data practices, and compliance across the country. The policy could also influence wider EU discussions on youth protection online.
As Greece positions itself at the center of this policy wave, the core question remains: can bans alone improve well-being without accompanying education and safeguards for privacy and choice?
