Greece Announces Social Media Ban for Under-15s Citing Anxiety and Sleep Problems
Greece has declared a groundbreaking social media ban for children under 15, set to take effect from 1 January. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis highlighted rising anxiety, sleep disturbances, and the addictive nature of online platforms as key drivers behind the decision, acknowledging it may provoke backlash from some youngsters.
In a TikTok video aimed at a younger audience, Mitsotakis stated, "We have decided to go ahead with a difficult but necessary measure: ban access to social media for children under 15 years old." He emphasised that the goal is not to remove children from technology entirely, which can foster inspiration and creativity, but to address scientific concerns about mental rest. "Science is clear: When a child spends hours in front of a screen its mind gets no rest," he added.
Parliamentary Approval and European Context
The ban is expected to be voted on this summer in Greece's 300-seat parliament, controlled by Mitsotakis's centre-right New Democracy party. If passed, Greece will become one of the first European nations to implement such legislation, following recent moves like outlawing mobile phones in schools and introducing parental control platforms.
This initiative aligns with broader European trends. In January, France began passing similar laws, while Australia blocked over 4.7 million social media accounts for under-16s in December. Countries like Spain, Malaysia, Denmark, and Poland are also considering or legislating bans.
Overwhelming Public Support Across Europe
A survey released in February by Greek polling firm ALCO showed overwhelming endorsement for the crackdown. Additionally, a YouGov poll across six European countries—France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, and the UK—revealed majorities of up to 79% support banning under-16s from social media.
- In the UK, 76% favour a ban, with a government consultation underway.
- France leads with the highest approval, aiming for a ban by the 2026-27 school year.
- Germany shows 74% support, Italy 70%, and Spain 68%.
- Poland has the lowest but still majority support at 53%.
Parents of children under 18 are among the most enthusiastic supporters, and women generally back the idea more than men. Support crosses party lines in most countries, except for Poland's Law & Justice (PiS), where it is lower among far-right voters.
Scepticism on Effectiveness Despite High Backing
Despite strong public backing, there is significant scepticism about the ban's effectiveness. In the UK, 54% believe it would be "not very" or "not at all" effective, including 46% of supporters. Poland, France, and Germany show mixed opinions, while Spain (53%) and Italy (61%) are more optimistic about its success.
Educational and Health Concerns in Greece
Greek teachers have frequently reported sleep-deprived children in classrooms, with retired primary school headteacher Dimitris Panayiotopoulos noting, "After 40 years of teaching I can honestly say that screens have destroyed children." Mitsotakis also warned of health and mental wellbeing risks from overexposure to social media.
The ban will restrict access to platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat for those born after 2012. Mitsotakis has called for unified European action, urging the EU to standardise online age verification tools by 2027. In a letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, he wrote, "National action alone will not suffice. A unified European framework must be in place by the end of 2026 to complement and strengthen necessary national initiatives for the protection of minors."
