Turkiye Tightens Social Media Regulations for Minors

Turkish legislators have taken a significant step towards safeguarding the nation's youth by passing a bill that limits social media access for children under 15, according to state media reports. This legislation is part of a global movement aimed at protecting young people from potential online dangers.

The bill's passage follows the tragic events in Kahramanmaras, where a 14-year-old boy's attack at a middle school resulted in multiple casualties. Authorities are currently examining the online behavior of the attacker to understand his motives. The new law requires social media platforms to implement age-verification systems, offer parental control tools, and swiftly address harmful content, as reported by the state-run Anadolu news agency.

The legislation now awaits ratification by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who has emphasized the urgent need to mitigate online risks to children's safety. Opposition voices, like the Republican People's Party, argue for rights-based approaches instead of bans. Meanwhile, other countries, such as Australia and Indonesia, are also enacting similar regulations to minimize online hazards faced by minors.