Athens: Greece is set to introduce legislation banning access to social media for children under the age of 15, in a move aimed at protecting minors’ mental health. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is expected to formally announce the measure, which could take effect from January 1, 2027.
The government plans to enforce the restriction using device-level controls through its state-backed Kids Wallet app for age verification. Mitsotakis described the decision as “difficult but necessary,” citing concerns over rising anxiety, sleep disorders, and the addictive nature of social media platforms.
He emphasized that the goal is not to restrict technology use entirely but to limit harmful exposure and digital addiction among children.
The proposal aligns Greece with a growing global trend. Australia has already implemented a ban on social media access for children under 16, while countries including France, Portugal, Spain, Slovenia, Britain, and Austria are considering or advancing similar measures.
In Indonesia, restrictions on minors’ access to high-risk digital platforms have also been introduced.
Greek officials said the initiative could encourage wider action within the European Union. The move reflects increasing international concern over online safety, cyberbullying, and the psychological impact of prolonged screen exposure on young users.
