European Union imposes social media ban for children under 13

The European Union imposes a social media ban on children under the age of 13 in order to protect the mental health of children. Account opening restrictions and details for those under 15 are in our news.

The European Union took a radical step to ensure the safety of children in the digital world and decided to impose a social media ban for children under the age of 13. This new regulation, announced by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, aims to protect the spiritual and physical development of children.

According to the official statement, individual social media use by those under the age of 13 is completely restricted, while those under the age of 15 are prohibited from opening personal accounts. Increasing digital risks and the increasing time that children spend on social media platforms are among the main factors that make it necessary to take such harsh measures across Europe.

The Risks Children Experience on Digital Platforms Are Increasing

Extensive research reveals the dangers posed by the time children spend on social media platforms. According to data from across Europe, children spend an average of four to six hours a day in front of screens. This condition causes sleep disorders, distraction, and serious social-emotional developmental disorders in approximately 60 percent of children. Experts emphasize that these platforms directly affect children's anxiety and depression levels.

In her assessment of the issue, Ursula von der Leyen stated that the issue is not just about access restrictions, but that when and to what extent children are exposed to social media channels is critical. [image_1] It is argued that the digital opportunities offered by the modern age should be filtered in accordance with the developmental stages of children.

Parental Control is Required with the New Regulation

Within the scope of the new ban, children under the age of 13 will be able to access social media platforms only under the supervision of a parent or teacher. This system aims to prevent children from being exposed to digital content unsupervised by completely eliminating individual account ownership. In this process, where additional protective measures are being discussed, especially for young people between the ages of 13 and 18, it seems that the European Union has taken a leading role in digital children's rights.

Considering the effects of digital platforms on children's mental health, the responsibility of parents in this process increases even more. Uncontrolled use of technology can cause children to disconnect from the real world and weaken their social skills. This initiative of the European Commission may cause technology giants to reconsider their data and attention-focused strategies on child users.