Indonesia is moving to restrict social media access for children under 16, following a similar approach taken by Australia. The announcement, made by Indonesia’s communication and digital affairs minister, Meutya Hafid, details a new regulation requiring “high-risk” platforms to remove accounts belonging to users under the age of 16, beginning on March 28.
Implementation and Affected Platforms
The implementation of this ban will occur in stages. Initially, major platforms including YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Roblox, and Bigo Live – a live-streaming platform based in Singapore – will be targeted. The Indonesian government has indicated that all platforms will be required to meet certain compliance obligations, though the specifics of these obligations have not yet been released.
Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has stated that it has not yet received the official regulation from Indonesia and is awaiting further details.
A Growing Global Trend
Indonesia is not alone in considering such measures. Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced last month that the country is preparing to ban social media for those under 16. Similarly, Malaysia’s cabinet has approved a ban expected to accept effect later this year.
The move to ban under-16s from these platforms could lead to challenges in enforcement, as users may attempt to circumvent restrictions. It is also possible that platforms will need to invest in more robust age verification methods.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the ban in Indonesia take effect?
The ban will begin on March 28, with the removal of accounts from users under 16 on “high-risk” platforms.
Which social media platforms are initially targeted by the ban?
The initial phase will focus on YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Roblox, and Bigo Live.
Is Indonesia the first country to implement this type of ban?
No, Australia was the first country to implement a sweeping ban on social media for users under 16.
As more countries grapple with the role of social media in young people’s lives, what impact will these evolving regulations have on the future of online interaction?
Keep reading
