Greece will ban social media access for children under 15 years old starting in 2027, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced. The measure makes Greece part of a growing international movement to restrict young people's access to social media platforms.

The announcement comes as multiple countries worldwide are implementing or considering similar age-based restrictions on social media use. Australia recently passed legislation requiring social media platforms to verify users' ages and prevent access for those under 16.

The Greek ban represents one of the more restrictive approaches being taken by governments concerned about the impact of social media on youth mental health and development. Details about enforcement mechanisms and specific platforms affected have not yet been disclosed.

Experts have raised questions about the effectiveness of such broad restrictions, with some characterizing blanket social media bans as insufficient solutions to complex digital safety issues. Critics argue that age verification and enforcement present significant technical and practical challenges.

The 2027 implementation timeline suggests Greece plans a gradual rollout, potentially allowing time for developing enforcement infrastructure and addressing technical hurdles associated with age verification systems.