Madrid, Spain, February 4, 2026
Spain and Greece are advancing initiatives to restrict social media access for minors, responding to growing concerns over online safety. Spain plans to enforce bans for those under 16, while Greece targets ages below 15, utilizing the Kids Wallet app for implementation. These regulatory efforts aim to foster safer digital spaces for youth amid rising public support. However, while national leaders push forward, the European Union has yet to provide a unified stance on social media regulations for minors.
Madrid, Spain – Spain and Greece Propose Social Media Bans for Teens
Protecting Minors in the Digital Age
In a strategic move to enhance online safety for the youth, Spain and Greece are taking bold steps toward imposing restrictions on social media usage among teenagers. As both countries grapple with the implications of unchecked digital access, their proposals reflect a larger European trend aimed at shielding young users from potential online hazards.
The proposed regulations, while garnering attention, also provoke discussions about the balance between safeguarding minors and upholding personal freedoms. As local entrepreneurs and innovators continue to thrive in a space that heavily relies on digital engagement, leaders must navigate the complexities of responsible social media use in a hyper-connected world.
Spain’s Initiative
On February 3, 2026, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez unveiled plans to restrict social media access for individuals under the age of 16. Speaking at the World Governments Summit in Dubai, he emphasized the critical need for effective age verification systems to protect minors from harmful online content. This initiative is part of a broader digital protection bill that is currently under parliamentary review.
Even as Sánchez criticized technology companies for failing to curb illegal content online, uncertainties remain about the bill’s passage due to the government’s lack of a majority. Nevertheless, the opposition has expressed support, indicating a potential for bipartisan approach to enhance online safety.
Greece’s Approach
In Greece, preparations are underway for a similar social media ban targeting children under the age of 15. A recent poll indicated robust public support for this initiative, with 80% of Greeks favoring the proposed restriction. The government’s initiative will likely leverage the Kids Wallet app, designed to help enforce the ban by preventing access to social media platforms for users below the specified age.
Public Support and Implementation
The overwhelming public backing for the proposed ban in Greece highlights a collective concern regarding the ramifications of social media exposure on mental health, addiction, and online bullying among youth. This growing awareness echoes sentiments expressed in other nations, such as Australia and France, where similar measures have been considered or implemented recently.
European Union’s Stance
Despite the proactive measures being taken by Spain and Greece, the European Union has yet to adopt a cohesive stance. In July 2025, the European Commission issued non-binding recommendations designed to enhance the protection of minors on social media platforms. These recommendations suggest avoiding designs perceived as addictive for underage users, creating a landscape where national initiatives may operate independently while still aligning with broader EU goals.
Conclusion
The proposed social media bans in Spain and Greece mark a significant shift in how European countries are addressing the challenges posed to minors in the digital landscape. With a focus on protecting youth while fostering informed discussions around technology use, these initiatives may pave the way for similar actions in other regions. As discussions surrounding these policies continue, it is essential for communities to stay informed and engaged in the discourse shaping the future of online interactions for their youth.
Key Features of Spain and Greece’s Proposed Social Media Bans
| Feature | Spain | Greece |
|---|---|---|
| Proposed Age Limit | Under 16 | Under 15 |
| Implementation Tool | Digital protection bill for minors | Kids Wallet app |
| Public Support | Not specified | 80% support |
| EU Stance | Part of a coalition with other European nations | Aligns with EU recommendations |
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