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Indonesia announces social media ban for children under 16
Indonesia will deactivate accounts for users under 16 on major social media and gaming platforms from 28 March, Communications Minister Meutya Hafid announced on Friday. The move aims to shield young people from online risks such as cyberbullying, pornography, and addiction.
Which platforms are affected?
The ban targets platforms deemed "high risk," including YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Bigo Live, and Roblox. Hafid stated the policy would make Indonesia "the first non-Western country to delay children's access to digital spaces based on age."
No immediate response was received from the companies involved.
Why is the government introducing the ban?
Hafid cited growing threats to children, including exposure to sexual content, online scams, and algorithm-driven addiction. A 2023 Unicef report found that nearly half of 510 Indonesian children surveyed had encountered sexual imagery on social media.
"Our children face increasingly real dangers online. The government is stepping in so parents no longer have to battle these platforms alone," Hafid said.
Public reaction
Amanda Kusumo, a 42-year-old mother of two, welcomed the decision. "As a working parent, I don't have time to constantly monitor my son's online activity. This regulation eases our worries," she told the BBC.
Her 17-year-old son, Matt Joseph, acknowledged both sides of the debate. "Children struggle to manage screen time, but completely blocking platforms might not be the best solution. If the government wants us to use social media less, they should offer better alternatives-like more engaging TV content," he suggested.
Global context and concerns
Indonesia's move follows Australia, which became the first country to enforce a similar ban in December. Critics there have urged expanding restrictions to gaming platforms like Roblox and Discord, which are currently exempt. Concerns have also been raised about age-verification technologies potentially blocking adults or failing to detect underage users.
Spain has announced plans to adopt Australia's approach, while the UK launched a public consultation this week to explore a comparable policy.
Indonesia's broader digital restrictions
The country has previously blocked access to AI chatbot Grok and adult platforms like OnlyFans and Pornhub to curb exposure to explicit content. The child protection agency stated it would review the new policy before commenting further.
