Turkey’s social media ban for children under 15 starts November 1

Turkey published rules on October 10 barring social media providers from serving children under 15. The restrictions are scheduled to take effect on November 1.

The regulations appeared in the Official Gazette following parliament’s adoption of the underlying law in April. Providers are required to implement technical and administrative safeguards, including age verification.

The rules also prohibit services likely to cause addiction in children. The policy addresses concerns about excessive screen use, sleep disruption, bullying and eating disorders.

Turkey joins countries imposing age-based restrictions on social media. Australia has introduced limits for children, while Britain and France have been pursuing similar protections.

The restrictions come amid wider controversy over online freedoms in Turkey. Rights groups have criticised measures targeting LGBTQ communities, the media and political opponents. Numerous social media accounts have been blocked in recent weeks, according to the report published by Dawn.