Greece to ban social media for under-15s from 2027
Greece will ban social media access for children under 15 starting in 2027, the prime minister announced, aiming to protect youth mental health.
The Greek government has announced a sweeping measure to protect minors: banning social media access for children under 15 years old from 2027. According to Reuters, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis stated that this initiative aims to safeguard the mental health and well-being of young people, amid growing concerns about the negative impacts of these platforms.
The decision is part of a broader effort to regulate the digital environment and prevent risks such as cyberbullying, addiction, and exposure to inappropriate content. Mitsotakis emphasized that the measure is a key component of a national strategy to promote safer and more responsible technology use among the younger generation.
Although the ban will take effect in 2027, the government plans to roll out educational and awareness programs in the coming years to prepare families and institutions. Psychology and education experts have supported the move, noting that excessive social media use can impair children's cognitive and emotional development.
This policy positions Greece as one of the first European countries to adopt such a strict restriction, following global trends toward increased digital regulation. The measure is expected to spark debate over balancing child protection with individual freedoms in the digital age.