Newsletters
Türkiye is preparing to introduce a nationwide restriction on social media access for children under the age of 15, as the government moves to hold platforms legally responsible for child protection in digital spaces.
Family and Social Services Minister Mahinur Ozdemir Goktas confirmed that a draft bill covering the regulation will be submitted to a parliamentary commission by the end of January.
The proposal forms part of a broader legislative package and follows more than a year of consultations with experts, families, civil society groups, and children.
Speaking to reporters after a cabinet meeting, Goktas said the government would not allow social media platforms to treat children as commercial assets and stressed that the regulation aims to shift responsibility onto digital platforms rather than families.
According to statements made by the minister, the draft regulation would introduce direct obligations for social media companies operating in Türkiye.
These include:
Minister Goktas said the aim is to ensure that children can benefit from digital tools without being exposed to psychological, emotional or criminal risks.
“We cannot remain passive. We have been working on this issue for one and a half years with academics, experts, social media platforms, civil society, families, and children themselves,” she said.
The minister also pointed to international examples, noting that Australia has already introduced a ban on social media access for children under 16.
The government has framed the proposal as part of a wider child protection strategy rather than a standalone digital policy.
Goktas said authorities are aware that criminal networks use some social media platforms to reach minors and push them toward illegal activity. She described the planned regulation as a protective shield designed to reduce such risks.
“Our responsibility is to protect our children’s minds and emotional well-being while they benefit from digital opportunities. Protecting children from harmful content and threats is our top priority,” she said.
The minister also linked excessive social media use among children to rising levels of depression, anxiety, and behavioral disorders.
As part of ongoing efforts, the Ministry of Family and Social Services launched the “Cocuklar Guvende” website and mobile application last month. The platform provides guidance, safe content, and support services for children and families.
According to the ministry, the system allows users to request emergency assistance with a single button and report harmful content through the DUY reporting mechanism. Officials monitor digital platforms around the clock and intervene when necessary.
Goktas said authorities have directly intervened in 2,904 harmful content cases so far. In such cases, content is reviewed, legal action is initiated, and access bans are imposed following court decisions through Türkiye’s information and communications regulator.
However, the minister said the government expects social media companies to act proactively rather than relying on court orders after harm has already occurred.
The draft bill, which includes the under-15 social media restriction, will be sent to the relevant parliamentary commission by the end of January.
If approved by lawmakers, the regulation would mark one of Türkiye’s most comprehensive attempts to regulate children's access to social media platforms and redefine the legal responsibilities of global tech companies operating in the country.
Set as preferred source
3 min read
