AZE.US
Azerbaijan will introduce new age restrictions for social media users, barring children under 16 from creating accounts and requiring parental consent for teenagers between 16 and 18.
The amendments were adopted by the Milli Majlis, Azerbaijan’s parliament, and are expected to take effect in 12 months.
Lawmakers say the measures are intended to protect minors from cyberbullying, dangerous online challenges, violent content, misinformation and other material that may harm their psychological or physical development.
MP Jeyhun Mammadov said the aim is not to ban social media entirely, but to shield children from harmful content and the effects of excessive smartphone use.
He also stressed that legislation alone would not be enough, saying parents must monitor how much time their children spend online and what kind of content they access.
MP Tural Ganjaliyev said limiting children’s exposure to potentially harmful online material could have a positive effect on their health, behavior and psychological well-being.
Another lawmaker, Elchin Mirzabeyli, said children’s rights should be protected in the digital environment in the same way they are protected in everyday life.
During the 12-month transition period, authorities are expected to identify the social media platforms subject to age verification rules, select the necessary technical solutions and conduct public awareness and educational campaigns.
It remains unclear how platforms will be required to verify users’ ages and what penalties may apply for violations.
AZE.US