Social Media Age Limit & More Protections Discussed In Public Consultation

An extensive public consultation is set to lead to an informed and collective decision on the use of social media among adolescents, as discussions continue at the Office of the Prime Minister in Valletta.

Prime Minister Robert Abela expressed satisfaction at the strong participation in the consultation process, noting that many individuals had made a conscious choice to contribute to a debate on a sector that is becoming increasingly influential.

He said the Government is currently in a listening phase and will base its decision on the views gathered. The Prime Minister stated that the widespread use of mobile phones and social media among children and adolescents is a reality frequently raised by parents.

He stressed that the issue is not whether something should be done, but how far the country should go.

The reform, he explained, aims to encourage young people to give greater priority to physical activity and to achieve a healthier balance. He added that while the Government is taking time to listen, it will not delay in implementing the necessary measures.

Parliamentary Secretary Rebecca Buttigieg, who is spearheading the talks, said that, both as a politician and as a mother, she believes reform is needed to provide proper regulation and protection for children and adolescents. She underlined that while other countries have introduced similar measures, Malta must adopt an approach that reflects its own social realities.

Lydia Abela described the consultation as crucial, noting that although social media has positive aspects, it also carries negative effects, particularly on children’s mental health, which must be addressed responsibly.

Social Policy and Children’s Rights Minister Michael Falzon explained that social media, particularly among young people, can be used positively to facilitate learning, communication and creativity, but it can also be misused with serious consequences. He reminded that, nowadays, cyber bullying and cyber stalking are criminal offences in their own right.

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