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

Imagine a bustling street in Malta’s capital, Valletta. Kids, barely tall enough to reach the old city’s historic door knockers, are glued to their phones, thumbs dancing over social media apps. Now, imagine they’re just 12. This isn’t a dystopian future, but a reality that’s got local NGO Momentum calling for a social media ban for under-16s.

Momentum’s Call to Action

Momentum, a charity focused on children’s rights, is urging the Maltese government to follow Ireland’s lead and introduce a social media ban for those under 16. They argue that children this age are too young to understand the implications of sharing personal information online or to cope with the pressure of social media’s constant comparison and criticism.

“We’ve seen a surge in mental health issues among young teens, and we believe social media is a significant contributor,” says Dr. Marie Claire Aquilina, Momentum’s director. “Children are exposed to inappropriate content, cyberbullying, and constant peer pressure. It’s time we protect them.”

Ireland’s Example

Ireland recently passed the Online Safety and Media Regulation Act, which includes a provision making it illegal for social media platforms not to seek age verification from users. If a user can’t prove they’re over 16, they’ll be blocked from using the platform. Momentum wants Malta to follow suit.

“Ireland’s law sends a strong message,” says Dr. Aquilina. “It tells tech giants that they can no longer turn a blind eye to underage users. We want Malta to do the same.”

But What About the Kids?

Not everyone agrees with Momentum’s stance. Some argue that banning social media would only drive children to find other ways online, perhaps less safe ones. Others point out that children need to learn how to navigate digital spaces responsibly.

“We’re not suggesting a complete ban on all digital platforms,” clarifies Dr. Aquilina. “We’re talking about social media apps like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. We want to give children time to grow, to learn, to develop resilience before they’re exposed to these pressures.”

Momentum is calling on parents, educators, and the public to support their campaign. They’re also urging the government to engage in open dialogue about the issue. “This isn’t about restricting children’s fun,” says Dr. Aquilina. “It’s about protecting their wellbeing. Let’s give our kids a childhood free from the constant scrutiny and pressure of social media.”