Essence of the Proposal
The main provision is presented in the new Article 10-1 of the Law "On Online Platforms and Online Advertising," which clearly states:- "Registration of users on online platforms under the age of sixteen is prohibited, except for registration in instant messaging services" (draft law, Article 11, paragraph 5 - new Article 10-1).
Goals of the Ban
In the explanatory note, the authors of the draft law emphasize that the main task is to protect children from harmful and illegal content that may be available on online platforms.This document has been prepared in accordance with the president's directive, announced at an expanded government meeting on January 28, 2025, regarding the legislative establishment of responsibility for internet platforms for the dissemination of destructive content.
The Ministry of Culture and Information considers the introduction of age restrictions as one of the measures to create a "safe information environment" and reduce risks for minors.
The draft law includes more than 80 amendments to various legislative acts.
According to the calculations of the Ministry of Culture and Information, the changes should:
- reduce the volume of illegal content;
- increase protection for children online;
- ensure equal conditions for foreign and local participants in the digital market;
- strengthen trust in online platforms and mass media.
Timeline for the Law to Come into Effect
After its approval by parliament and signing by the president, the law will come into effect 60 days after its official publication.Previously, a similar ban for children under 16 on the use of social networks was introduced in Australia.
