Indonesia will start enforcing a ban on social media access for children under 16 on Saturday, a move impacting an estimated 70 million young people. The government hopes to shield children from risks including cyberbullying, pornography, and internet addiction.
A Growing Global Trend
The ban, which will deactivate underage accounts on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Bigo Live, and Roblox, follows a similar measure implemented in Australia in December. Several other countries are now considering similar restrictions.
The Indonesian government is placing the responsibility for enforcing the ban on the social media platforms themselves, with potential fines or suspension for non-compliance. However, details on how implementation will be monitored have not been released.
Concerns and Reactions
Eleven-year-old Bradley Rowen Liu, who spends up to five hours a day on TikTok, expressed worry that the ban would leave him “driftless.” He indicated he may ask his parents for help accessing the app. Fifteen-year-old Maximillian, however, supports the ban, stating he feels “unproductive” from spending too much time on social media.
Some educators believe the ban doesn’t go far enough. Randi Putra Chaniago, a teacher, expressed concern over “brain rot” content and suggested a complete ban on cellphones in classrooms. The P2G Indonesian Teachers’ Association supports this more comprehensive approach.
Social media companies are responding to the ban. YouTube’s parent company, Google, stated it will launch AI technology in Indonesia next year to verify user ages, while TikTok pledged to work with the government to ensure “teens can continue to access safe online spaces.” Roblox also committed to introducing additional controls for minors.
Educational psychologist Karina Adistiana noted that intensive social media use – defined as it becoming a child’s “main world” – can lead to depression, difficulty concentrating, trouble sleeping, and anxiety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What platforms are included in the ban?
YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Bigo Live, and Roblox are all included in the ban.
How will the ban be enforced?
The Indonesian government is placing the onus on social media platforms to regulate access for users under 16, with potential fines or suspension for non-compliance.
What are some of the concerns about social media use among young people?
Concerns include cyberbullying, pornography, internet addiction, depression, difficulty concentrating, trouble sleeping, and anxiety.
As Indonesia implements this ban, it remains to be seen how effectively it will be enforced and whether it will achieve its goal of protecting young people from the potential harms of social media.
