The bill would require platforms to install age-verification systems, provide parental-control tools and remove harmful content within one hour.
Turkish lawmakers on Tuesday began debating a bill that, if passed, would bar social media platforms from serving users under the age of 15, making Türkiye the latest country to move towards restricting children’s access to the digital world.
The bill, part of a wider legislative package, would require platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, Facebook and Instagram to prevent children under 15 from creating accounts and to implement age-verification systems. Under the plan, parental-control tools would also be mandatory, and companies would have to remove harmful content quickly — within one hour — in emergencies. According to the Associated Press, it is not yet clear how long parliamentary review of the bill will take.
For users aged 15 to 18, platforms would have to offer separate, safer services and give parents free tools to control account settings, approve purchases and limit screen time.
A global trend
Türkiye’s move reflects a broader international shift. Australia passed a law in late 2024 banning social media for children under 16; it took effect in December 2025 and sets fines of up to AUD 49.5 million for non-compliant platforms. Several European countries have either adopted similar restrictions or are considering them.
