Introduction of age restrictions on social media aligns with global challenges – MP

Azerbaijan's measures to strengthen age restrictions and parental controls on social media are in line with global challenges and international practices, where similar legal mechanisms have already been introduced in many countries, Milli Majlis MP Elnara Akimova said.

According to Report, Akimova noted that the main advantage of the amendments to the Law "On Protection of Children from Harmful Information," signed today by President Ilham Aliyev, is not the restriction of social networks, but the creation of a safer digital environment for children and teenagers.

"Today, the promotion of violence, cyberbullying, drug use and other harmful habits, aggressive behavioral patterns, and manipulative content on social media have a serious impact on the psychological development of minors. Age restrictions are aimed precisely at preventing these risks," the MP said.

She said international experience shows that ensuring children"s digital safety has already become one of the priorities of state policy.

"In many countries, legal mechanisms are in place that provide for stricter age restrictions and stronger parental controls. Therefore, the steps being taken by Azerbaijan in this area are consistent with global challenges," Akimova said.

The lawmaker also emphasized that legislation alone would not be enough to address all related issues.

"For young people to stay away from harmful habits, families, schools, and society must work together toward a common goal. When legal mechanisms, media literacy, and parental control are applied jointly, the results become more effective. This decision is not aimed at restricting technology, but at ensuring its safe use. The development of a healthy digital environment will make an important contribution to protecting the moral, psychological, and intellectual development of children, as well as raising a more responsible and thoughtful generation in the future," Akimova stated.