Turkey: Age Limit for Social Media & Extended Maternity Leave Proposed
Social Media Age Limit and Extended Maternity Leave Proposed in New Legislation
A new bill presented to the Turkish Grand National Assembly (TBMM) by the AKP group proposes significant changes regarding social media access for minors and maternity leave benefits. The legislation, if passed, will restrict social media access for individuals under the age of 15 and increase maternity leave for both public and private sector employees. The bill too addresses regulations for foreign-based online gaming distributors and includes provisions concerning individuals convicted of sexual abuse.
Restricting Access for Younger Users
The core of the proposed legislation centers on limiting access to social media platforms for those under 15 years of age. According to the bill, social media providers will be required to implement effective age verification systems to prevent registration of users under 15 and offer parental control tools. This move aims to enhance the safety of children in the digital environment.
Extended Maternity and Paternity Leave
Alongside the social media regulations, the bill proposes an increase in maternity and paternity leave. For public and private sector employees, maternity leave would be extended to 24 weeks. Paternity leave would be increased from 5 days to 10 days. These changes reflect a growing emphasis on family support policies.
Regulations for Online Gaming Distributors
The legislation also includes provisions targeting foreign-based online gaming distributors with a daily access rate exceeding 100,000 users. These distributors will be required to establish a representative in Turkey and classify games based on age appropriateness. This aspect of the bill has already drawn criticism from the gaming community.
Ban for Individuals Convicted of Sexual Abuse
A further provision within the bill focuses on protecting children by prohibiting individuals convicted of crimes such as sexual abuse, drug trafficking, obscenity, prostitution, and intentional homicide from working in or operating facilities frequented by children, including schools, kindergartens, dormitories, and sports facilities. This measure aims to create a safer environment for vulnerable populations.
The proposed legislation represents a multifaceted approach to addressing concerns related to digital safety, family support, and child protection within Turkey. The bill’s progression through the TBMM will be closely watched by stakeholders across various sectors.