Ban Takes Hold in Indonesia
Indonesia started blocking social media for children under 16 on Saturday, targeting platforms that pose risks to young users. Communications Minister Meutya Hafid declared there was "no room for compromise" on compliance during a news conference. The policy affects 70 million children, who represent 25% of the country's 280 million residents, by cutting off access to sites linked to online harms.
Platforms Face New Rules
The regulation lists specific platforms as high risk, including YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Bigo Live and Roblox. X and Bigo Live have already aligned their services to the minimum age requirements, according to Hafid's statements. Other companies must adjust their products immediately or risk fines and potential nationwide shutdowns.
Government Aims to Curb Online Dangers
Authorities announced the ban earlier this month to address threats like online pornography, scams, cyberbullying and internet addiction. Hafid emphasized that digital platforms need to prevent young people from creating accounts, marking a direct response to growing safety concerns. The rollout will occur gradually, with account deactivations planned over time to ease the transition.
Experts Weigh Benefits and Challenges
Diena Haryana, founder of a Jakarta-based non-profit focused on online safety, supported the measure and noted that studies show social media use can harm children's mental health. She urged parents and schools to guide children toward real-world activities, stating they "need to learn to use this digital technology at the right time, at the right age, and with the right guidance." However, some experts remain skeptical about implementation, warning that children will be able to bypass the curbs through Virtual Private Networks.
Global Echoes of the Policy
In December, Australia became the first country in the world to restrict social media access for under-16s. Since then, platforms have revoked access to about 4.7 million accounts identified as belonging to children. Countries such as Germany, Spain, France and Malaysia have adopted similar steps like age verification or partial limits, while the United Kingdom's parliament voted this week to push for its own ban. A US jury also ordered Meta and YouTube to pay $6 million this week for creating addictive features that harmed a young woman, highlighting broader accountability pressures on tech firms.
Families Adapt to Restricted Access
Parents in Indonesia must now find alternative ways to monitor or replace online activities for their children, potentially shifting focus to offline hobbies and education. This change could reduce exposure to digital risks but may also limit tools for learning and social connection. As enforcement progresses, households will navigate these adjustments, balancing safety with the loss of everyday digital options for youth.
The article specifies that the $6 million award to the young woman from Meta and YouTube was ordered by a US jury because her depression and suicidal thoughts were worsened by scrolling and algorithmic recommendations.