Ankara, Turkey — April 23, 2026 The Turkish parliament has passed a law banning children and teenagers under 15 from accessing social media platforms, while also imposing stricter regulations on tech companies operating in the country.
New Regulations for Social Media Platforms
The legislation requires platforms with more than 10 million daily accesses from Turkey to comply with official orders in urgent cases within one hour. This measure aims to enhance government oversight of online content, particularly in situations deemed critical by authorities. The law does not specify penalties for non-compliance but signals a broader push for tighter control over digital spaces.
Turkey’s move follows a global trend of increasing scrutiny over social media’s impact on youth. Similar debates are underway in Germany, where policymakers are discussing whether to restrict children’s access to these platforms. The Turkish law, however, goes further by implementing an outright ban for minors under 15, setting a precedent that could influence other nations.
Domestic and International Reactions
The decision has sparked mixed reactions domestically, with supporters arguing it will protect children from harmful content and opponents warning of overreach. The CHP, Turkey’s main opposition party, has raised concerns about the law’s potential to stifle free expression and limit access to information.
Internationally, the ban has drawn attention from policymakers in Australia and Europe, where discussions about regulating social media for minors are also gaining traction. While some view Turkey’s approach as a bold step, others caution against its implications for digital rights and privacy.