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

Imagine a young child, barely tall enough to reach the counter, trying to buy a pack of sweets at the corner shop on Strait Street. Now, imagine that child asking for a social media account instead. This isn’t a hypothetical scenario for many parents in Malta today. As children as young as eight are being exposed to social media, local political party Momentum is calling for a ban on under-16s using these platforms.

Underage Exposure: A Growing Concern

Stroll along the bustling Republic Street in Valletta, and you’ll see it – children glued to their parents’ smartphones, scrolling through apps that are meant for adults. The Malta Communications Authority (MCA) reports that around 30% of children aged 9-16 have their own social media accounts, with many using their parents’ details to bypass age restrictions.

Momentum’s proposal isn’t just about protecting children from inappropriate content. It’s about safeguarding their mental health and well-being. Studies have linked excessive social media use to anxiety, depression, poor sleep quality, and even cyberbullying among young people.

Momentum’s Proposed Solution

Momentum is urging the government to amend the Data Protection Act to prohibit social media platforms from collecting data from users under 16. They also want to see stricter enforcement of age restrictions and tougher penalties for platforms that fail to comply.

“We’re not suggesting a complete ban on all digital platforms,” explains Momentum’s spokesperson, Dr. Alexia Pace. “But we must protect our children from the harms of social media. We need to promote healthy digital habits and ensure that children have time for offline activities and face-to-face interactions.”

What Can Parents Do?

While Momentum fights for legislative change, parents can take immediate action at home. The MCA recommends using parental control tools to limit screen time and block inappropriate content. Open communication about online safety and responsible digital behavior is also key.

Dr. Maria Attard, a local psychologist, advises, “Set clear boundaries and explain the reasons behind them. Help your child understand the potential risks and benefits of social media use. Encourage them to engage in other activities that promote their physical, emotional, and social well-being.”

Momentum’s call to action is a wake-up call for all of us. It’s time to protect our children from the digital Wild West that is social media. It’s time to ensure that their childhood is filled with the sweet innocence of playing in the Three Cities’ narrow streets, not the harsh reality of online pressures.