Punjab Assembly Moves to Restrict Child Social Media

Punjab Assembly urges ban on social media for under-16s, calling for age checks and child safety laws amid global debate on youth digital access.

The Punjab Assembly has unanimously passed a resolution recommending restrictions on social media access for children under 16, citing growing concerns about online safety and digital well-being. The move, spearheaded by Punjab Child Protection and Welfare Bureau Chairperson and MPA Sarah Ahmed, calls for effective legislation and robust age-verification mechanisms to safeguard minors from cyber harassment, exploitation, and harmful content.

The resolution emphasizes the need for social media companies to comply with child protection standards and proposes a coordinated mechanism between federal and provincial institutions to ensure online safety. “Every child deserves a safe childhood and a secure digital future,” Ahmed stated, underscoring the government’s responsibility to protect children’s best interests in the digital environment.

Globally, similar measures have sparked debate. Countries such as China, the UAE, and Türkiye have introduced restrictions on youth access to social media, while France’s top court recently blocked a ban for under-15s, citing freedom of expression concerns. Australia became the first country to enforce a nationwide ban in December 2025, barring under-16s from platforms including TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook.

The European Union has also announced plans to strengthen protections against harmful social media features, reflecting a growing international consensus on the need for stricter safeguards. However, major platforms like Meta, Google, Snap, and TikTok argue that blanket bans are unnecessary, pointing to existing age restrictions (typically 13+) and safety measures. Critics counter that these controls are insufficient, with data showing widespread underage use across Europe.

In Pakistan, the resolution is not yet binding law but represents a significant step toward formal regulation. If enacted, it would place Pakistan among the countries actively reshaping digital policy to prioritize child safety. The debate highlights the tension between protecting minors and preserving digital freedoms, a balance governments worldwide continue to grapple with.

The Punjab Assembly’s move signals a broader push toward digital sovereignty and child protection, aligning with global trends while reflecting local concerns. Whether the resolution translates into enforceable legislation will depend on federal coordination and the willingness of social media companies to comply with stricter standards.