Main points
- In Ukraine, the possibility of restricting children's access to social networks is being discussed due to the increase in online activity among teenagers and the associated risks.
- The study showed that a significant proportion of children spend a lot of time online, and 60% of them do not inform adults about dangerous situations they encounter online.
The Verkhovna Rada discussed banning social networks for children / Verkhovna Rada
Ukraine may introduce restrictions on children's use of social media. The initiative is being discussed against the backdrop of increasing online activity among teenagers and risks associated with security in the digital environment.
During a speech in the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, MP Yulia Hryshyna raised the issue of children's safety in the digital environment and stated the need for possible restrictions on access to social networks. This was announced during a plenary session of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine.
Why are people talking about restricting social media for children in Ukraine?
According to her, similar steps are already being considered or implemented in various countries around the world, including Austria, Spain, France, Malaysia, and Brazil . She emphasized that Ukraine must also respond to the challenges associated with the impact of the Internet on minors.
As reported by TSN.UA , a study was commissioned by the analytical service of the parliament to analyze the situation. According to its results, a significant part of Ukrainian teenagers spend too much time on the Internet – every fourth is online for more than 7 hours a day . At the same time, about 80% of children have accounts on popular platforms, including Telegram and TikTok.
The study also points to serious risks. Every third child faces dangerous situations online, and 60% of them do not report this to adults. The security aspect is particularly emphasized – over the past three years, the number of crimes against national security involving minors has increased 43 times. According to the deputy, 22% of those recruited by Russia are children.
She emphasized that currently Ukrainian legislation lacks clear rules for digital platforms and age restrictions for registration on social networks. This, in her opinion, creates additional risks for underage users.
In this regard, the parliamentarian called on colleagues to start working on regulating this area to ensure greater protection for children on the Internet. This includes not only possible restrictions, but also the creation of comprehensive rules for digital services.