The debate on imposing restrictions on the use of social media by children and teenagers under the age of 15 is heating up again in Greece. The government of Kyriakos Mitsotakis is considering adopting a model similar to the one implemented in Australia, Vonista Vibes reported.
The proposal aims to protect young people from the dangers associated with being online, such as addiction, exposure to inappropriate content and the emotional impact of excessive use of social media platforms.
Australian legislation passed in November 2023 imposes strict restrictions on minors under the age of 16, banning them from social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. These platforms are now required to implement measures to ensure compliance with the age restriction. In the event of non-compliance, companies risk hefty fines, which could reach up to €31 million. These measures have provoked mixed reactions, with companies expressing concerns about the effectiveness and possible unintended consequences of these provisions.
In Greece, the proposal to impose restrictions on the use of social networks by minors finds supporters but also critics. Child psychologist Christina Boyazzi stresses that the protection of children must be carried out with consistency and cooperation, starting with a change in the behaviour of the parents themselves. As she points out, parents cannot demand limits from their children while they themselves are addicted to electronic devices.
Boyazzi agrees with banning cell phones in classrooms because the devices distract students and reduce their concentration. At the same time, she refers to the emotional effects social media can have, such as low self-esteem and comparison to idealized images of life.
The Greek government's proposal is part of a wider effort to find ways to regulate young people's digital lives in order to create a safer environment. Although adopting strict measures may prove difficult, the discussion on the need to protect children from the negative effects of technology is timely and necessary. | BGNES
