©Eliott Reyna via Unsplash
Greece is stepping up a gear on the digital regulation front, announcing a ban on social media networks for children under 15. A measure described by the government as difficult but necessary, it will be put to the vote by the summer and should come into force on January 1, 2027.
The announcement was made by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in a video message addressed directly to the youngest members of society, to explain the government's intention to act on the effects of intensive platform use.
In this message, the Prime Minister emphasized digital dependency, anxiety and excessive screen use, stressing that this provision aims to limit the impact of social networks on young people's development. The Greek project also intends to play a pioneering role in Europe, with the stated aim of pushing the European Union to adopt common rules concerning the minimum age of access to platforms.
Kyriakos Mitsotakis' speech to young people
Mr. Mitsotakis set out the reasons for this decision, addressing young people directly as the first to be affected:
"When a child spends hours in front of a screen, his or her mind doesn't rest. I'm sure a lot of you younger people are angry with me right now. If I were your age, I might react the same way. But our role, and my role, is not always to try to please. And even if today you don't agree, I just want you to think about it and discuss it with your friends. If something makes us feel more anxious, sad, or like we're worth less than we really are, then maybe it's worth putting a stop to. Our aim is not to keep you away from technology, which can be a source of inspiration, a source of knowledge, a source of creativity."
He then continued, also addressing parents:
"The addictive design of certain applications, the business model based on your attention, on the time you spend in front of the screen of yourThe addictive design of certain applications, the economic model based on your attention, on the time you spend in front of the screen of your cell phone, which ends up limiting your spontaneity and freedom, must at some point be stopped. And I'd like to say one thing to parents: no law can replace your presence. This policy is simply a tool to help you. I sincerely believe that, in a few years' time, we will all see it as something positive and natural."
Not just Greece: the debate extends to Europe and the rest of the world
The Greek plan is part of a growing international debate on the effects of social networks on minors. The issue focuses on addiction, loss of concentration and the impact on mental health; factors which are prompting several governments to consider similar restrictions. In this context, Greece aims to become one of the first European countries to set a clear threshold.
The most significant precedent comes from Australia, which introduced an age limit of 16, forcing platforms to delete millions of accounts. Other countries, including Austria, Italy and several European states, are debating restrictions between the ages of 14 and 15, while the European Commission has launched audits on certain devices deemed potentially risky for the very young.
(©GreenMe.it 2026/Managing editor : Julie Morgan - The Press Junction/Picture : Eliott Reyna via Unsplash)