Egypt Moves to Ban Social Media Use Among Young Teens

Egyptian lawmakers have begun the process of banning social media platforms for young teenagers, citing concerns over children’s safety and exposure to harmful online content.

In a statement on Sunday, the Egyptian Parliament said it is exploring ways to regulate children’s social media use to combat what it described as “digital chaos.”

Presidential Backing and International Examples

The move has received the backing of President Abdel-Fattah El-Sissi, who urged lawmakers and government officials to draft legislation restricting social media use for minors until they are mature enough to handle it responsibly.

President El-Sissi also recommended studying policies in other countries, such as Australia, which has already imposed a ban, and the United Kingdom, which is considering legislation to limit children’s access to social media.

Lawmakers indicated that consultations are ongoing with government agencies and expert bodies to ensure a law that protects children from online risks that could harm their thoughts, behavior, or well-being.

Rising Concerns Over Children Online

A 2024 report revealed that about 50% of Egyptian children under 18 use social media, exposing them to potential cyberbullying, abuse, and harmful content. Parliament argued that the ban would safeguard children from these threats and reduce unsupervised online exposure.

If enacted, Egypt could become the first African country to restrict social interaction platforms for young teens.

Global Context

Concerns over social media use by minors are growing worldwide. Australia became the first country to implement a ban in December 2025, prohibiting those under 16 from accessing platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

Other nations are also considering similar measures:

• United Kingdom: Plans to restrict social media use for young teens and tighten rules on harmful content and screen time.
• France: President Emmanuel Macron has urged a ban for children under 15, expected to take effect in September 2026.
• Other countries: Denmark, Malaysia, Norway, South Korea, Spain, and some U.S. states are reviewing similar restrictions for 2026.

Social media platforms, while important tools for information and global connection, have been linked to peer pressure, anxiety, addiction, cyberbullying, and privacy risks, prompting governments worldwide to consider protective legislation for minors.