Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced a bold move on Wednesday morning: starting January 1, 2027, children under 15 will be banned from using social media. The decision comes in response to growing concerns about anxiety, sleep issues, and the addictive nature of online platforms.
In a heartfelt video message directed at Greek children, Mitsotakis explained the reasoning behind the ban. He highlighted how excessive screen time prevents young minds from resting and exposes them to constant pressure from social media comparisons and online comments.
The prime minister shared that many parents have voiced their worries about their children’s well-being. “They don’t sleep well, they’re easily anxious, and they spend hours glued to their phones,” he said.
Leading the Way in Europe
“Greece will be one of the first countries to take this step,” Mitsotakis stated confidently. “But I’m sure we won’t be the last. Our aim is to encourage the European Union to follow suit.”
Public opinion seems to back the move. A February poll by ALCO revealed that 80% of Greeks support the ban. The government has already banned mobile phones in schools and introduced parental control tools to limit screen time for teens.
How Will the Ban Work?
Local reports suggest the ban will be enforced through a government-developed app installed on all devices. This app will block access to popular social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. Interestingly, the same app is already used to prevent underage teens from buying cigarettes and alcohol.
Widespread Support Among Adults
The ban has struck a chord with many parents. According to the Greek Safer Internet Centre, 75% of children using social media in Greece are still in primary school. One frustrated mother told Reuters, “Ban them, shut them down. We’ve reached our limits… We parents need help.”
With strong public backing and a clear plan in place, Greece is set to make waves as it tackles the growing challenges of social media addiction among children
