Greece follows Australia, bans social media for under-15s from this date

Greece has announced that it is banning social media for kids under the age of 15, joining a group of countries like Australia, Denmark and Indonesia that have either completely banned or restricted access to apps like TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and Facebook, among others.

The new rule is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.

‘Decision after talking with parents’

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis shared the news, pointing to the addictive design of modern apps and the severe impact they have on youth mental health, according to a report by news agency Reuters. The PM also said that the decision to ban social media access was heavily influenced by conversations with parents, who reported that their kids are easily anxious, sleep poorly and spend excessive amounts of time on their phones.In a video message addressed directly to young people, Mitsotakis explained that the ban aims to combat rising anxiety and sleep deprivation. Mitsotakis noted that spending long hours staring at screens prevents children’s minds from resting, while subjecting them to intense pressure from online comments and constant social comparison.

‘Following Australia’s lead’

The report said that this is the latest in a series of steps by the Greek government – others being outlawing mobile phones in classrooms and launch of parental control platforms to limit teenage screen time.

“Greece will be among the first countries to take such an initiative. I am certain, however, that it will not be the last,” Mitsotakis stated.Greece’s announcement follows a December decision by Australia, which became the first country in the world to ban social media for children under 16. Australia’s law blocks young users from accessing major platforms like TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook.

Tech giants say outright ban not a solution

Tech giants like Meta, Snapchat, and TikTok have argued that outright bans are not the best way to protect young people, however, they have committed to complying with Australia’s new laws.Meanwhile, other nations, including the UK, France, Denmark, Poland and Malaysia, are actively considering or drafting their own social media bans for minors.