Pakistan may soon move toward restricting social media access for children under the age of 16, as the Lahore High Court (LHC) has taken up the matter and sought responses from the federal government and relevant authorities. According to reports, the court has directed concerned institutions to submit their replies by February 10, indicating that the issue is now under serious legal and policy consideration.
During the proceedings, the LHC observed that any decision regarding social media usage by minors must ultimately be formulated and implemented by the government. The court emphasized that while the judiciary can highlight concerns and seek explanations, it is the responsibility of the state to design a comprehensive policy framework that balances child protection, digital rights, and practical enforcement.
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The debate over children’s use of social media has also gained momentum in Pakistan’s parliament. Earlier this month, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Senator Falak Naz called for a complete ban on social media platforms for individuals under the age of 18. She specifically highlighted platforms such as TikTok, expressing concern over their psychological, social, and moral impact on young users in the country.
The issue was formally raised during a Senate session presided over by Senator Sherry Rehman, where Senator Falak Naz submitted a calling attention notice. The notice drew attention to the rapidly increasing use of social media among underage children and the lack of effective regulatory mechanisms to protect them from harmful content, online exploitation, and excessive screen time.
Supporters of stricter regulations argue that unchecked social media access exposes children to cyberbullying, inappropriate material, privacy risks, and mental health challenges. They believe that age-based restrictions could help reduce these risks and encourage healthier online habits, while also placing greater responsibility on parents, platforms, and regulators.
The discussion in Pakistan is taking place against the backdrop of global developments. Australia recently became the first country to ban social media use for children under 16, setting a precedent that is being closely watched worldwide. Under the new Australian law, major platforms are required to block underage users or face heavy penalties.
In Australia’s case, 10 major social media platforms, including TikTok, YouTube, and Meta-owned Instagram and Facebook, were ordered to comply with the age restriction. Companies that fail to enforce the ban could face fines of up to A$49.5 million (approximately $33 million). While the move has been welcomed by many parents and child welfare advocates, it has also drawn criticism from technology companies and free-speech supporters, who argue that such bans may be difficult to enforce and could limit digital freedoms.
As Pakistan considers similar measures, policymakers face the challenge of balancing child safety with freedom of expression and access to information. The responses submitted to the LHC by February 10 are expected to play a key role in shaping the next steps, potentially paving the way for Pakistan’s first formal policy restricting social media use by minors.
