Greece and Spain Promote Ban on Social Media for Minors in New Regulatory Offensive

Recently, Greece and Spain announced a coordinated initiative to restrict teenagers’ access to social media platforms, reflecting a growing alarm in various European capitals about the proven effects of prolonged digital exposure. According to reports from international media, this measure stems from a shared concern about how digital platforms affect the neurological and emotional development of minors, aligning with global efforts to establish stricter regulatory frameworks.

Growing Concern About Digital Addiction in Adolescents

Authorities in Greece and other European countries are focused on documented scientific evidence regarding internet addiction and its impact on young users. Experts cited in reports such as Ming Pao indicate that unregulated exposure to harmful content and addictive algorithms creates compulsive behaviors that interfere with adolescents’ academic, social, and psychological development. Excessive social media use has been linked to increases in anxiety, depression, and self-esteem issues among minors.

Coordinated Measures: What Greece and Spain Are Aiming For

Both nations are developing legislative frameworks aimed at setting limits on access to social media platforms based on age groups. Greece, as part of this initiative, proposes more rigorous age verification mechanisms, while Spain is exploring options ranging from time restrictions to outright bans on certain population segments. These measures represent a shift toward more aggressive regulations, moving away from previous approaches based solely on parental warnings.

Protecting Minors and Ensuring Safe Online Experiences

The declared goal of both countries is to safeguard minors’ digital experience by reducing their exposure to risks from online interactions. Greece and other European actors seek to establish standards that balance freedom of access with effective protection, creating digital spaces where adolescents can participate more safely. This initiative aligns with a broader international movement recognizing that regulatory responsibility should be shared among governments, tech platforms, and families.