Greece to implement social media ban for under-15s

Greece to Ban Social Media for Under-15s

Greece has announced it will prohibit social media access for children under the age of 15, commencing in January 2025. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis stated the measure aims to combat rising anxiety and sleep issues among young people, alongside addressing the inherently 'addictive design' of these platforms.

This initiative places Greece among an increasing number of countries globally that are enacting restrictions on minors' exposure to social media. Australia implemented a law in December requiring platforms to remove accounts held by under-16s, with France, Austria, and Spain also pursuing similar curbs. The UK government is currently consulting on a potential ban for under-16s, whilst Ireland and Denmark are exploring comparable policies.

Social media companies, however, argue that blanket bans are likely to be ineffective, challenging to enforce, and could potentially isolate vulnerable teenagers. Reddit, for instance, is legally contesting Australia's recent legislation.