Greece introduces social media ban for users under 16
Illustrative photo: Teenagers with gadgets. Photo: Elliott Reyna on Unsplash
Starting October 2025, access to social media platforms will be automatically blocked for children under 16 in Greece.This is reported by European Conservative.
The control is enforced through the Kids Wallet app, which blocks minors' access to Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and X. The restriction will also affect gambling, alcohol, tobacco, pornography, and dating sites for those under 18. Unlike in Australia, where access is restricted through identity verification, the Greek model does not require mandatory age confirmation.
The Prime Minister of Greece supported the initiative, stating at a UN event in New York that the world is carrying out “the largest uncontrolled experiment on children’s minds” through unchecked social media exposure. According to him, the consequences of this influence are "unlikely to be positive."
Meanwhile, critics point out that under the slogan of protecting youth, authorities may increase control over the Internet. Similar measures are being discussed in France and Spain, raising concerns about restricting access to information.
The European Commission is simultaneously promoting the "Chat Control" initiative, which involves scanning messages on platforms like Signal and Telegram. Signal and Proton Mail companies have already warned that they are ready to leave the European market if such a system is introduced.
Previously, the UOJ reported that YouTube deleted the UOJ channel in Greece.
Read also
In Chernivtsi, another seizure of UOC cathedral prepared
Believers of the Chernivtsi-Bukovyna Eparchy have been called to intensified prayer due to the threat of a new forceful provocation.
Rivne Eparchy venerates "Life-Giver" Icon of Most Holy Theotokos
On the day of veneration of the "Life-Giving" icon, the UOC hierarchs celebrated the Liturgy and held a procession at the Mezhyrich Monastery.
In Romania, memorial cross placed on site of church demolished under communism
In Bucharest, a monument was blessed on the site of the Spirea Veche Church, which was destroyed in 1984 for the construction of the "House of the People".
Pope calls European military spending as betrayal of diplomacy
The pontiff called on students not to confine themselves within national borders and ideologies.
Rada creates “Seeking the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness” association
The inter-factional parliamentary association in the Verkhovna Rada will be headed by MP Heorhiy Mazurashu.
Trial of Metropolitan Arseniy in Dnipro postponed until June
The hearing at the Chechelivka District Court was postponed due to the defense’s complaint over the replacement of the prosecutorial team and motions filed by three of the four lawyers.