Greece to Ban Social Media for Under-15s Starting 2027

Greece Announces Social Media Ban for Minors

The Greek government has announced its plan to ban social media access for children under the age of 15, with the new regulation set to take effect on January 1, 2027. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis cited concerns over rising anxiety, sleep issues, and the addictive nature of online platforms as key drivers for the decision.

Situational Overview

The initiative follows strong public support, with a recent poll showing approximately 80% of Greeks approve of such a ban. This move aligns Greece with other nations taking a harder stance on youth social media access, such as Australia, which previously banned platforms for users under 16. Greece is now urging for a coordinated European Union response to create a unified regulatory front.

Economic and Market Impact

The ban poses a significant regulatory challenge for major social media companies including Meta, TikTok, and Snap. Enforcement will leverage the EU Digital Services Act (DSA), which empowers regulators to impose substantial fines on non-compliant platforms. These penalties can reach up to 6% of a company's global turnover, creating a considerable financial risk and pressuring platforms to implement robust age verification systems across the region.

Summary

Greece's legislative action, expected to be passed in mid-2026, signals a growing trend of governmental oversight in the digital space. The ultimate success of this national ban will likely depend on the establishment of a broader EU legislative framework. Stakeholders will be closely watching how social media giants adapt to these evolving regulations and the potential for a standardized 'digital age of majority' across Europe.

FAQ

Q: When will the Greek social media ban for minors take effect?
A: The ban is scheduled to be implemented starting January 1, 2027.

Q: What are the potential penalties for non-compliant social media platforms?
A: Under the EU Digital Services Act (DSA), platforms could face fines of up to 6% of their global turnover for failing to comply.

Source: Investing.com