President Mohamed Muizzu announced today that his administration will work towards banning social media access for children under the age of 16.
Speaking at a press conference, Muizzu stated his intention to implement measures similar to those in Australia, ensuring that children under 16 are restricted from creating social media accounts.
"I intend to take the necessary steps, including legislative amendments and other essential actions, to ensure that specific social media applications cannot be used by youths under the age of 16," Muizzu said.
He further noted that the government aims to draft the relevant laws and regulations within this year to begin enforcement.
He also highlighted that the government would engage in discussions with social media companies to facilitate the implementation of the ban.
"I intend to carry out the necessary work to introduce standards in the Maldives similar to those used in Australia, including the required communications with the companies that operate these social media applications," he added.
Muizzu emphasized that the Australian model would serve as a benchmark when drafting the laws and regulations to restrict social media for those under 16.
"I view the measures taken by Australia in this regard as a positive standard," he said.
