Egypt Lawmakers Move to Restrict Social Media Use by Young Teens
Egyptian lawmakers have begun the process of introducing legislation that could ban young teenagers from using social media platforms, citing concerns over child safety, harmful content, and unchecked digital exposure.
In a statement released on Sunday night, the Egyptian Parliament said legislators are exploring regulatory measures to curb children’s access to social media and address what it described as “digital chaos.”
President El-Sissi Backs Proposed Social Media Restrictions
The initiative has received support from President Abdel-Fattah El-Sissi, who has urged lawmakers and the government to consider laws restricting young teens’ access to social media until they reach an age where they can use such platforms responsibly.
The president also called on authorities to examine policies adopted in other countries, including Australia, which has already imposed a ban, and the United Kingdom, which is working on legislation to restrict or ban children’s use of social media.
Consultations Underway on Child Protection Law
Lawmakers said consultations are ongoing with government agencies and expert bodies to draft a law aimed at protecting Egyptian children from risks that threaten their thoughts and behaviour.
According to the Parliament, the proposed legislation is designed to shield minors from harmful online environments that are often poorly regulated and difficult for parents to control.
Rising Concerns Over Children’s Online Exposure
A 2024 report revealed that nearly 50% of children under the age of 18 in Egypt use social media platforms, where they may be exposed to harmful content, cyberbullying, online abuse, and scams.
Authorities say the move is part of broader efforts to remove children from a digital space with a long history of abuse, weak parental oversight, and increasing cases of online attacks targeting minors.
Egypt Could Become First African Country to Impose a Ban
If passed, the legislation would make Egypt the first African country to ban young teenagers from social media platforms.
The move comes amid growing global concern over the impact of social media on children’s mental health, safety, and well-being, prompting several countries, particularly in the West, to pursue similar restrictions.
Global Trend Toward Restricting Teen Social Media Use
In December 2025, Australia became the first country to formally ban social media use for children under 16 years old. The law, which took effect on December 10, restricts access to platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.
The United Kingdom has also announced plans to consider banning young teenagers from social media, alongside tougher laws to protect children from harmful content and excessive screen time.
Similarly, French President Emmanuel Macron has urged his government to fast-track legislation banning social media access for children under 15, with enforcement planned for the start of the next school year in September.
More Countries Considering Similar Measures
Other countries, including Denmark, Malaysia, Norway, South Korea, Spain, and several US states, are reportedly considering similar restrictions, with potential implementation timelines set for 2026.
Balancing Digital Access and Child Safety
While social media platforms play a major role in global communication and access to information, critics argue that their downsides for minors, including addiction, low productivity, misinformation, cyberbullying, privacy risks, and online scams, now outweigh the benefits.
Egypt’s proposed legislation reflects a growing international push to redefine children’s relationship with social media in an increasingly digital world.
