Spain and Greece are preparing to restrict teenagers’ access to social media. The move shows a tougher European approach toward tech companies. Many critics accuse these platforms of harming children’s mental health and promoting addiction.
The proposals sparked strong criticism from tech billionaire Elon Musk, who owns X.
Proposed Age Limits in Spain and Greece
Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said his government plans to block social media access for children under 16. A senior government official said Greece is also close to announcing a similar ban for children under 15.
These measures aim to protect minors from harmful online content and excessive screen time.
Spain Plans Executive Accountability Law
Along with age limits, Sánchez announced new legal steps. Spain plans to hold senior social media executives personally responsible for hate speech and illegal content on their platforms.
The government says this law will strengthen accountability and improve online safety.
Elon Musk Reacts Sharply on X
Elon Musk responded angrily on X and posted several messages attacking Sánchez. He first called him a “tyrant” and later described him as a “fascist totalitarian.”
His comments increased tensions between European regulators and U.S.-based tech companies.
Google, TikTok, Snapchat, and Meta did not immediately comment on Spain’s proposals.
Europe Tightens Control on Children’s Online Use
Spain and Greece now join Britain and France in reviewing stricter social media rules for children. In December, Australia became the first country to ban social media for children under 16.
At the World Governments Summit in Dubai, Sánchez warned about unsafe online spaces for children. He described the internet as a “digital Wild West” and promised stronger protections.
Concerns Over Age Verification
Snapchat warned that Australia’s ban has flaws. The company pointed to weak age-verification tools. It also warned that teens may shift to unregulated messaging apps.
Sánchez also announced a new group called the “Coalition of the Digitally Willing.” The group will help European countries coordinate social media regulation.
AI Content Adds to Safety Concerns
Concerns over AI-generated content have intensified the debate. Reports claimed that Elon Musk’s Grok AI chatbot created non-consensual sexual images, including content involving minors.
Sánchez said Spanish prosecutors will examine whether Grok, TikTok, and Instagram broke existing laws.
Some experts urge caution. Psychology professor José César Perales said researchers still disagree on whether social media always harms teenagers.
Public Support for Tougher Rules Grows
The Spanish government plans to introduce the ban through amendments to its digital protection law. Officials say the changes will give parents stronger legal support.
Public opinion supports stricter rules. An Ipsos survey found that 82% of Spaniards favor banning social media for children under 14. The figure stood at 73% a year earlier.
Supporters say the ban could reduce peer pressure and boost offline interaction. Critics warn that enforcing the rules will remain difficult.
Australia’s experience shows the potential impact. Regulators said authorities deactivated nearly five million teen accounts within weeks of the ban.