Greece passes social media ban for children under 15

Greece Bans Social Media Use for Children Under 15 Starting 2027

New Legislation and Its Implications

Overview of the Ban

ATHENS, Oct 23 (Reuters) - Greece's parliament approved a bill on Friday that bans the use of social media platforms for children under 15 amid growing concerns over their impact on the health and safety of minors. 

Implementation Timeline

• The ban comes into force on January 1, 2027

International Context

Australia and France: Comparative Legislation

• Australia was the first country to pass legislation to curb the use of social media by minors, doing so last year. A similar law passed in France was struck down by the country's Constitutional Council in August

Government and EU Initiatives

Role of Greek Prime Minister

• Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said social media platforms have 2-1/2 months to devise a way to verify users' ages and protect their privacy

Collaboration with the European Union

• Greece is among seven European Union countries seeking an age verification solution with the European Commission

Support for Parents and Children

Addressing Health and Social Concerns

• Greece says it is standing by parents to help curb the "endless scrolling" that deprives children of sleep, concentration and time with their friends

(Reporting by Angeliki Koutantou; Editing by Tom Hogue)