Momentum Urges: Ban Social Media for Under-16s in Malta

Imagine, for a moment, the bustling streets of Republic Street in Valletta. The sun is shining, and children are out, laughing and playing. Now, picture one of them, just 12 years old, scrolling through Instagram, exposed to content far beyond their years. This is the reality that Momentum, a local NGO, wants to change. They’re urging a social media ban for those under 16, sparking a heated debate in our close-knit community.

Understanding the Concern

Momentum’s campaign, ‘Protect Children Now’, is driven by a simple yet powerful concern: the internet, and specifically social media, is not designed with children in mind. It’s a digital world filled with adult content, cyberbullying, and privacy issues, all of which can have devastating effects on young, impressionable minds.

Dr. Marthese Portelli, a psychologist and Momentum’s executive president, explains, “We’re seeing an increase in anxiety, depression, and poor self-esteem among children exposed to social media. It’s a complex issue, but one thing is clear – children under 16 are not equipped to navigate this digital scene alone.”

Local Laws and Global Precedent

Malta, with its progressive stance on digital rights, could be at the forefront of this global conversation. Neighboring France has already implemented a social media ban for under-15s, and Ireland is considering similar legislation. Momentum believes Malta should follow suit, amending the Data Protection Act to prohibit social media use by those under 16.

However, not everyone agrees. Critics argue that a blanket ban is not the solution. They suggest education and parental involvement are key. “We shouldn’t punish technology,” says Dr. Alexiei Dingli, a tech lawyer, “but rather, teach children how to use it responsibly.”

Finding a Balance

As the debate continues, one thing is certain: we must protect our children. The question is, how? Momentum’s proposal is bold, but it’s also a starting point. It’s a call to action, urging us to discuss, debate, and ultimately, find a balance that keeps our children safe in the digital age.

As Dr. Portelli puts it, “We’re not against technology. We’re against it being used to harm our children. Let’s work together to ensure that doesn’t happen.”