Norway, Turkey Move to Ban Children From Social Media

Norway and Turkey are taking decisive steps to reclaim childhood from the pervasive influence of social media, signaling a growing global concern over the impact of digital platforms on young minds. As reported by AFP, Norway plans to introduce legislation in 2026 to prohibit children under 16 from using social media, while Turkey has recently passed a similar law targeting those under 15. These actions reflect a shared understanding that the digital world, with its algorithms and constant engagement demands, is encroaching upon the essential experiences of youth.

Norway's proposed law, championed by Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, explicitly aims to 'give back childhood to children.' A key aspect of Oslo's strategy is placing the responsibility for age verification squarely on the shoulders of technology companies. Minister of Digital Transformation and Public Administration, Karianne Tung, emphasized that platforms must implement effective age verification systems from day one. This proactive stance contrasts with approaches that might place the onus on parents or children themselves, recognizing the power and responsibility of the platforms that profit from user engagement.

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Turkey's legislative move comes shortly after a tragic school shooting, prompting an investigation into the 14-year-old suspect's online activities. The new law mandates platforms like YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram to block accounts for users under 15 and integrate parental control tools. Online gaming companies will also be required to have a representative in Turkey, with potential penalties including bandwidth reduction and fines for violations. This underscores the urgency felt by the Turkish government to curb potential negative influences on young people.

These developments in Norway and Turkey are not isolated incidents but part of a burgeoning international movement. Australia's ban, implemented in December 2025, has already led to the blocking of millions of accounts. Indonesia has similar regulations, and several European nations, including Spain, France, the UK, and Denmark, are actively considering similar measures. The European Commission's recent launch of an age verification app further illustrates the continent's concerted effort to create a safer online environment for minors. From our perspective in Vietnam, while these regulations are driven by concerns about child protection, it is crucial to balance these measures with the educational and connective benefits that the internet can offer, ensuring that the digital divide does not widen further.

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