Turkey has moved to bar children under 15 from using social media, with the restriction set to begin on November 1. The decision was made official on Saturday, when it appeared in the country’s official state journal.
Turkey joins a growing list of nations passing laws to shield young people from the damaging effects of online platforms. Australia has already introduced limits on children’s social media use, while Britain and France are pursuing similar measures.
Law requires age checks and bars addictive services
The decision follows the adoption of the law by parliament in April. Under its terms, platforms must put technical and administrative measures in place, including age verification, to protect young users. The law also prohibits offering any service that could produce an addictive effect in children.
Rights groups raise free expression concerns
The protections are designed to guard against screen addiction, lack of sleep, bullying and eating disorders. Rights groups, however, have complained that the restrictions curb freedom of expression in Turkey, particularly affecting LGBTQ communities, the media and the political opposition. Numerous social media accounts have been blocked in recent weeks.
