Greece will ban access to social media for young people under 15, starting January 1, 2027

Greece plans to ban young people under the age of 15 from accessing social media starting January 1, 2027, becoming one of the first European Union member states to adopt such a measure. The decision was presented on Monday in Athens by State Minister Akis Skertsos during a press conference.

Greek authorities justify the ban by citing the need to combat digital addiction and the effects of excessive use of online platforms. Health Minister Adonis Georgiadis cited a survey conducted among 2,500 students. According to the results, one-quarter of them use social media excessively, while one-fifth feel agitated or have difficulty concentrating when they do not have access to their phones.

Digital Minister Dimitris Papastergiou said that platforms failing to comply with the rules will be monitored and sanctioned through European mechanisms. Under the Digital Services Act, fines can reach 6% of global annual turnover.

Greece’s announced measure is part of a broader effort by the European Commission to protect minors online. Through the EU Kids Act, Brussels is proposing a ban on social media for children under 13, supervised accounts for those aged 13 to 15, and additional safety measures for adolescents aged 15 to 18.