Greece Approves Social Media Ban for Children Under 15, Restrictions to Begin in 2027

Greece’s parliament has approved legislation banning children under the age of 15 from accessing social media platforms, joining a growing number of countries seeking to limit young people’s exposure to online risks. The restrictions are scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2027, as the government steps up efforts to address concerns about children’s digital habits and mental well-being.

The legislation reflects increasing concern among policymakers about the effects of excessive screen time on young people, including its potential impact on sleep, concentration, emotional health and relationships. Greek authorities have argued that stronger safeguards are needed to protect children from the possible harmful consequences of prolonged social media use.

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said social media companies would be given approximately two and a half months to develop systems for verifying users’ ages while safeguarding their privacy. The requirement is expected to place greater responsibility on technology companies to prevent underage users from accessing services covered by the restrictions.

Age verification remains a major challenge for governments attempting to enforce minimum-age rules online. Authorities must establish reliable methods of determining users’ ages without unnecessarily collecting sensitive personal information or exposing children to additional privacy risks.

Greece’s decision also comes amid efforts to coordinate digital safety policies across the European Union. The country is among seven EU member states seeking a common age-verification framework with the European Commission. Supporters of a coordinated approach argue that common standards could make enforcement more consistent across national borders and reduce differences in how online platforms apply age restrictions.

The move follows similar initiatives elsewhere. Australia introduced legislation in 2025 restricting social media access for children under 16, making it a prominent example of a government seeking stronger limits on young users’ access to online platforms. France has also pursued restrictions aimed at protecting minors, although its legislative efforts have encountered constitutional challenges.

While supporters argue that age-based restrictions could reduce children’s exposure to harmful content and compulsive online behaviour, enforcement will depend on the effectiveness of verification systems and compliance by technology companies.