March 11, 2026
Digital Rights
Gender & Children

Should SA follow Australia and other countries in banning social media for children under 16?

Monishka Govender
Link to article

The discussion reflected on the increasing international anxiety over the risks digital platforms posed to children, including cyberbullying, mental health challenges, online grooming and the circulation of child sexual abuse material.

The team which argued in favour of a ban maintained that stronger legal protections was necessary to shield vulnerable young users from exploitation and psychological harm. They argued that children often lacked the maturity and knowledge required to navigate the risks associated with social media platforms.