Greece’s parliament has approved legislation that will restrict social media access for children under the age of 15, becoming one of the latest countries to introduce measures aimed at addressing concerns around the impact of online platforms on minors. The law is scheduled to come into effect on January 1, 2027, as Greek authorities seek to strengthen protections for children’s health, privacy and digital well-being.
Under the new rules, social media platforms will be required to develop mechanisms for verifying users’ ages while ensuring that personal information remains protected. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said platforms would have around two and a half months to work on solutions that can confirm users’ ages and support privacy safeguards. The government has said the measure is intended to help families manage children’s online activity and reduce potential risks linked to excessive social media usage. Greek officials have highlighted concerns that prolonged use of social media platforms can affect children’s daily routines, including sleep patterns, concentration and time spent on offline activities. The government said it aims to support parents in addressing what it described as endless scrolling habits that may influence young users’ overall well-being. The legislation is part of a wider international discussion about how governments can create safer digital environments for younger users while balancing access to online services.
Greece’s decision follows similar efforts by other countries seeking to introduce stronger controls around children’s use of social media platforms. Australia became the first country to pass legislation aimed at limiting social media access for minors, while France also introduced a similar law that was later overturned by the country’s Constitutional Council. Several European Union countries are currently working with the European Commission to explore possible age verification solutions that could be applied across digital platforms. The Greek government has said the country is among seven EU member states involved in discussions regarding a common approach to verifying users’ ages online. The issue has become increasingly important as regulators examine how technology companies handle children’s data, online safety measures and platform responsibilities. While social media platforms provide opportunities for communication, learning and creativity, governments worldwide are reviewing policies to address concerns related to privacy, mental health and exposure to unsuitable content.
The implementation of Greece’s new restrictions will depend on how platforms establish age verification systems and how privacy protections are maintained during the process. Authorities have emphasized that the objective is not only limiting access but also creating safer online experiences for younger users. The move reflects a growing global focus on digital safety policies as governments, technology companies and families continue discussing the appropriate role of social media in children’s lives.
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