Daily Times

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s recent proposal to ban social media use for children under 16 deserves serious attention from global leaders, international organisations and communities worldwide. Albanese says that the misuse and unchecked influence of various social media platforms are endangering the mental and physical well-being of young users. He urges tech companies to enforce age restrictions strictly and impose substantial fines on violations. His government is committed to consulting stakeholders and developing legislation to address these risks systematically.

The Australian leader’s initiative raises a crucial debate on how unrestricted social media access can impact society. While social media has revolutionised communication and connection, it is increasingly clear that it poses risks for vulnerable age groups. The effects of unregulated social media usage among children are evident in rising mental health issues, decreased attention spans, and the increased threat of online exploitation and bullying.

What about Pakistan where Twitter is banned? Unlike many countries, Pakistanis face the challenges associated with restrained social media access as well as unrestricted social media use. Despite the country’s marvellous progress in digital access, regulations concerning age restrictions on social media remain largely ineffective. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat have become deeply part of the daily lives of teenagers, often without adequate oversight or age-appropriate content filters. This has contributed to issues like cyberbullying, the proliferation of harmful or inappropriate content, and the neglect of academic responsibilities. The need for regulatory measures, such as introducing fines or penalties for tech companies that allow underage users, is increasingly apparent. Without effective regulations, social media can compromise not only the well-being of young users but also societal norms and values.

The other issue Pakistani society faces is the rapid spread of misinformation, which fuels societal discord and can even disrupt public order. The lack of effective age restrictions has exacerbated this issue, allowing young users to easily access and share misleading or harmful information. To counter these risks, parents and educators in Pakistan must take an active role in supervising children’s online activities. Establishing community awareness campaigns on responsible social media usage is equally important. The responsibility does not solely rest with families; government institutions and tech companies must collaborate to protect the younger generation from the dangers associated with unregulated access. *