Social media age limits: 15-Year-Old Cap for Platforms in Türkiye

Social media age limits are set to transform the digital landscape for minors as Türkiye prepares to implement a landmark legal framework. Family and Social Services Minister Mahinur Özdemir Göktaş announced that social network providers will no longer serve children under 15, mandating strict age verification measures to shield young users from digital risks.

The proposed legislation, which was finalized following a Cabinet meeting chaired by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, is scheduled for discussion in the TBMM General Assembly this week. Minister Göktaş emphasized that while digital tools offer educational benefits, they also expose children to cyberbullying, data breaches, and manipulative advertisements.

Mandatory Social Media Age Limits and Platform Accountability

Under the new regulations, social network providers must implement robust systems to ensure users meet the minimum age requirement.

“Social network providers will not provide services to children under 15 and will take all necessary measures, including age verification, to guarantee this,” Göktaş stated.

Beyond age limits, the law introduces several protective layers:

• Parental Control Tools: Platforms must provide accessible tools for guardians to monitor activity.

• Rapid Response Mechanisms: Service providers must establish effective systems to handle complaints and applications promptly.

• Game Industry Oversight: For the first time, definitions of “game distributor” and “game developer” will be included in the legal code. Gaming platforms with over 100,000 daily users must appoint a local representative in Türkiye and provide age-appropriate ratings for all content.

Extended Maternity Leave and Workplace Reforms

The legislative package also brings significant changes to labor laws and family welfare. In a major shift for working mothers, the current 16-week maternity leave will be extended to 24 weeks. This update applies to both public and private sectors. Minister Göktaş noted that a special provision allows mothers currently on leave to benefit from the extension if they haven’t yet reached the 24-week mark.

Furthermore, paternity leave will be standardized at 10 days across all sectors to eliminate discrepancies between public and private employees. Foster parents will also receive a new 10-day leave entitlement starting from the day they take custody of a child.

Zero Tolerance for Child Safety Risks

The reform tightens employment restrictions in child-intensive environments. Individuals with convictions for crimes such as sexual abuse, drug trafficking, or intentional homicide will be legally barred from working in schools, dormitories, sports facilities, or internet cafes. Göktaş reaffirmed a zero-tolerance policy toward any element threatening the physical or psychological development of children.

Source: İHA