Greece's Bold Move: Social Media Ban for Under-16s?

In a significant announcement at the UN General Assembly, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis revealed that Greece is contemplating a ban on social media for children under the age of 16. This proposal, aligning with calls for increased global cooperation, emphasizes the influence of digital platforms on young minds.

The Prime Minister’s Stand

Prime Minister Mitsotakis was speaking during an event in New York aimed at tackling child safety in the digital era. He didn’t mince words about the potential hazards of unmonitored social media usage, warning that the implications are far-reaching and potentially detrimental. As stated in Digital Watch Observatory, he described the current situation as an “uncontrolled experiment” on youth.

International Collaboration

While admitting the challenges inherent in enforcing such a ban, Mitsotakis asserted that it should not hinder progress. Greece seeks to align these efforts with international partnerships to set a precedent in protecting children’s mental welfare. This move is part of a broader global discourse on how nations can unite to address fast-evolving digital ecosystems.

Greece’s Measures

Greece is not just making large-scale international gestures. On a national level, steps have already been taken to safeguard young citizens. Notably, the country has banned mobile phones in schools, significantly improving the educational environment. Furthermore, initiatives like parco.gov.gr have been launched to aid parents in managing children’s online interactions.

The Call to Action

Mitsotakis urged nations to work collectively in addressing these growing threats, emphasizing that digital safety requires a united front. The Prime Minister’s speech could serve as a catalyst for other countries reconsidering their social media policies for younger demographics.

The debate on social media exposure is gaining momentum, and Greece is at the forefront, daring to venture into new territory in child protection. Will other nations follow suit and introduce their own measures, or will they remain on the sidelines as spectators? Only time will tell.