On April 8th, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced that the country will ban access to social media for children under 15 years old starting January 1st, 2027. This decision is not just an isolated policy, but a clear indication that the world is entering a new phase in the management of the digital space. As technology develops faster than the ability to control it, the question is no longer "should we regulate it or not," but "how to regulate it correctly and adequately."
This trend isn't limited to Europe. Australia, Malaysia, and several US states have tightened social media regulations, setting age restrictions for users under 16 and issuing stern warnings to major tech companies. Companies like Google with YouTube and Meta, with its ecosystem of Facebook, Instagram, and Threads, are facing unprecedented pressure: they must maintain growth while simultaneously demonstrating social responsibility.
For over a decade, social media has become an inseparable part of modern life. From personal connection and information sharing to business and entertainment, every activity bears the mark of digital platforms. However, behind this convenience lies a rarely discussed reality: many platforms are designed to keep users engaged for as long as possible. And this very mechanism is becoming the focus of global debate.
Seemingly harmless features like "infinite scrolling" or personalized algorithms are actually powerful tools for shaping behavior. Users don't need to search; content finds them, continuously and without interruption.
In particular, the explosion of short videos has taken this experience to a new level. With just a swipe, a stream of content appears one after another, making it harder than ever to stop.
The problem becomes even more serious when the group most affected is teenagers. This is a user group that has not yet fully developed self-control and is easily influenced by external factors. Pressure from "likes," social comparisons, or exposure to negative content can create profound psychological impacts.
Numerous studies have shown a link between excessive social media use and anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders in young people. In the United States, lawsuits against technology companies are marking a significant turning point. For the first time, courts are not only examining harmful content, but also delving into the very design of the platforms.
When businesses are deemed "irresponsible" in product development, it means they can no longer remain unaffected by the social consequences of their technology.
However, tightening regulations, or even imposing bans, is not a simple solution. In the digital environment, where geographical boundaries are almost completely blurred, technical measures can be easily bypassed.
Children can easily create accounts with inaccurate information or switch to less regulated platforms. This means that bans, if not accompanied by comprehensive solutions, risk becoming merely a formality.
Therefore, many experts believe that a more effective approach lies in changing things from within the platforms themselves. However, the responsibility cannot be placed solely on technology companies. Families and schools play a crucial role in guiding and educating children in digital skills.
Equipping young people with the ability to identify risks, control their screen time, and build healthy habits are key factors in helping them adapt to the digital environment.
However, an undeniable asymmetry exists. While platforms possess advanced technology and vast amounts of data to influence user behavior, children and adolescents are the most vulnerable group. Therefore, simply asking businesses to "voluntarily" adjust is insufficient.
Policy and legal intervention is necessary to create a fairer and safer playing field. And perhaps the most important thing right now is not "to ban or not to ban," but to clearly define the roles and responsibilities of each party.
The government needs to build a suitable legal framework. Businesses need to put people at the center of their design. Families and schools need to work alongside young people. Only when everyone participates can the social media challenge be solved sustainably.