Turkiye to ban social media use for children under 15 from November 1

Turkiye will prohibit children under 15 from using social media from November 1, following the formal publication of a law adopted by parliament in April.

The measure requires social media companies to introduce safeguards, including age-verification systems, to prevent underage users from accessing their platforms. The law also bars services considered likely to have addictive effects on children.

The move puts Turkiye among a growing group of countries seeking to limit young people's exposure to online risks, including cyberbullying, sleep disruption, screen addiction and eating disorders.

Australia has already introduced restrictions, while Britain and France are considering similar measures.

The restrictions come amid wider concerns over freedom of expression in Turkiye. Rights groups have criticised curbs affecting the media and political opposition, while numerous social media accounts have been blocked in recent weeks.