Turkey Drafts Law to Limit Social Media Use and Toughen Sentences for Juvenile Offenders

The Turkish government has completed work on a comprehensive draft law designed to regulate children’s use of social media and strengthen penalties for crimes committed by minors. The 17-article package, which amends five separate laws, introduces two landmark changes: a 16-year age limit on social media use and a reduction in sentence reductions for juveniles convicted of serious crimes.

This long-anticipated legislation is presented under two main categories: “Regulations on Combating Juvenile Crime” and “Regulations on Protecting Children from Digital Dangers.” Policymakers describe the package as a critical step in safeguarding children against both online risks and the criminal justice loopholes that allow reduced accountability for serious offenses.

Social Media Age Limit Set at 16

Among the most closely watched provisions is the restriction on social media access. Under the proposed law, children under 16 will no longer be allowed to create or use accounts on widely used digital platforms.

Social network providers will be prohibited from offering services to children under 15, and once enacted, the law will effectively bar 16-and-under users from actively participating in global social media platforms.

Officials argue that the measure aims to protect minors from cyberbullying, online predators, data exploitation, and harmful content, which have become rising concerns in Turkey and globally.

Redefining Sentencing for Juvenile Offenders

The second major section of the draft addresses crimes committed by children aged 15 to 18. The new regulations amend Article 31 of the Turkish Penal Code (TCK), which currently provides significant sentence reductions for minors.

• Previously, a minor committing a crime punishable by aggravated life imprisonment could see the sentence reduced to 24 years in prison.

• Under the new draft, the maximum penalty is raised to 27 years.

• For crimes punishable by life imprisonment, the existing upper limit of 15 years will increase to 18 years.

These changes reflect a shift toward harsher consequences for minors involved in severe crimes, while still recognizing their status as juveniles under international standards.

Judges Granted New Discretion

Another critical amendment expands the discretion of judges. Courts will be able to decide not to apply any sentence reduction in specific cases, based on several criteria:

• The degree of intent behind the offense.

• The purpose and motive in committing the crime.

• The manner in which the crime was carried out.

• Whether the child had previously committed intentional crimes.

This provision signals a tougher stance, particularly for repeat offenders and cases where minors act with clear intent and criminal motivation.

Other Penalties to Be Increased

The legislative package also raises punishments for other family- and child-related offenses:

• Violation of family obligations: The minimum penalty rises from one to two months of imprisonment. If the offense is committed against a pregnant spouse, the penalty will range from four months to two years in prison.

• Endangering children’s morality, safety, and health: The offense will carry a penalty of six months to three years of imprisonment.

• Crimes involving criminal organizations: Penalties for minors involved in forming, leading, or joining a criminal organization will see both minimum and maximum terms increased.

These measures are intended to act as a deterrent and strengthen legal protections for children and families.

Social Media Debate and Public Reaction

The 16-year social media limit is expected to trigger debates among parents, educators, and digital rights advocates. Proponents argue it is a necessary measure to shield children from the dangers of digital platforms, citing research on the negative effects of social media on mental health, self-esteem, and exposure to harmful content.

Critics, however, may raise concerns about freedom of expression, access to information, and practical enforcement in an age where technology is widely accessible. How platforms will verify users’ ages and prevent underage access remains an open question.

A Shift in Juvenile Justice Policy

The adjustments to juvenile sentencing mark a significant policy shift. For years, Turkey’s legal framework emphasized leniency for minors, reflecting the belief that rehabilitation should outweigh punishment. By narrowing these reductions and granting judges broader authority, the government signals a move toward stricter accountability, particularly in cases involving violent crimes.

Supporters argue that this balances the need to protect society with the responsibility to rehabilitate young offenders, while opponents may see it as undermining the protections designed for children under international conventions.