Turkey will ban children under 15 from using social media from November 1, following the formal publication of a new law. The measure forms part of growing efforts by governments to protect young people from potential harm associated with online platforms.
The decision appeared in Turkey’s official state journal on Saturday, October 10, 2026. Parliament adopted the legislation in April, requiring social media providers to introduce safeguards for younger users.
Under the new rules, social media companies must take technical and administrative measures to enforce the restrictions. These measures include age verification to prevent children below the permitted age from accessing covered platforms.
Turkey Introduces New Social Media Restrictions
The law places responsibility on social media providers to strengthen protections for children. It requires companies to introduce measures that help prevent underage users from accessing services covered by the ban.
The legislation also states that services likely to produce addictive effects in children must not be offered. This provision reflects concerns about how digital platforms may influence young users’ behaviour and wellbeing.
However, the implementation of the new rules will depend partly on how providers verify users’ ages and enforce access restrictions. The available report did not identify the specific platforms affected or explain how authorities would monitor compliance.
Turkey Joins Countries Restricting Children’s Social Media Use
Turkey’s decision follows similar moves in other countries concerned about children’s online experiences. Australia has introduced restrictions on social media use by children, while Britain and France have pursued measures aimed at strengthening protections for younger users.
Governments supporting such restrictions have raised concerns about screen addiction, sleep disruption, cyberbullying and eating disorders. They argue that stronger safeguards could help reduce children’s exposure to harmful online experiences.
The measures also reflect wider debate about the responsibilities of technology companies. Policymakers are increasingly examining how social media platforms should protect younger users while allowing access to useful digital resources.
Debate Continues Over Social Media and Children’s Wellbeing
Social media can provide children and teenagers with opportunities to learn, communicate and access information. However, excessive use and exposure to harmful content have raised concerns among parents, educators and policymakers.
Online bullying, pressure to compare appearances and lifestyles, and disruptive screen habits can affect young people’s experiences online. These concerns have contributed to calls for stronger age protections and greater responsibility from platform operators.
Turkey’s new law seeks to address some of these concerns by restricting access for children under 15. Its practical impact will depend on enforcement and the effectiveness of the age-verification systems providers introduce.
Rights Concerns Surround Turkey’s Online Restrictions
The new social media ban comes amid wider debate about freedom of expression in Turkey. Rights groups have criticised restrictions affecting LGBTQ communities, media organisations and political opposition groups.
The report also noted that numerous social media accounts had been blocked in recent weeks. These developments have raised concerns about online access and expression alongside discussions about child protection.
The government’s implementation of the new law will therefore take place against an existing debate over digital rights. How authorities enforce the restrictions, and how platforms respond, will shape the practical effect of the policy.
