Athens, April 2, 2026 – The Europe Today: Greece is preparing to introduce a ban on social media use for children under the age of 15, as authorities seek to address growing concerns over screen addiction and online risks affecting minors.
The proposed measure, expected to be officially announced in the coming days, would place Greece among a growing number of nations tightening restrictions on children’s access to digital platforms.
The move comes amid increasing anxiety among parents, many of whom report difficulties in managing their children’s use of smartphones and social media. Families across the country have cited frequent conflicts over screen time, with some parents resorting to strict measures such as limiting usage hours or confiscating devices.
“I’d prefer a different approach, limiting mobile phone use within the family, but if that doesn’t work, maybe a ban is the only solution,” one parent said, reflecting a broader sentiment among concerned households.
Experts and child protection organizations have also voiced alarm over the impact of social media on young users, highlighting issues such as cyberbullying, addiction, misinformation, and exposure to online abuse. Officials at the Greek Safer Internet Centre reported that cases of cyberbullying and online exploitation have more than doubled in recent years.
Data from the center indicates that a significant proportion of children in Greece are already active on social media platforms, raising concerns about their ability to navigate digital spaces safely.
While many parents support stricter regulations, others have questioned how effectively such a ban could be enforced, noting that tech-savvy teenagers may find ways to bypass restrictions. Some critics also argue that solutions should focus more on education and family-level controls rather than government-imposed limitations.
The proposed policy reflects a wider international debate over regulating youth access to platforms such as Instagram and TikTok, as governments worldwide weigh the mental health implications against the principles of digital freedom.
If implemented, Greece would join a growing list of countries exploring or adopting stricter age-based controls to safeguard children in the digital age.
