Turkey moves to outlaw social‑media use for anyone younger than 15, a step the government says will shield minors from social media addiction and online harms.

Legislation, awaiting presidential assent, aims to curb cyberbullying, commercial exploitation and digital overuse. Critics warn that the rule could curtail free speech and privacy for children, raising concerns among civil‑rights groups.

The bill could reshape the domestic tech market, forcing platforms to tighten age‑verification and adjust advertising models. Investors in Turkish internet firms will watch closely, as compliance costs and user base shifts could impact earnings and market share.

For now, the law stands as a clear signal that Turkey prioritises child safety over digital openness, a stance that may influence regional policy debates on online regulation.