Amid growing outrage over explicit school-related content spreading online, the Sri Lankan government is considering restricting social media access for underage children, raising concerns about digital freedom, censorship, and control over what youth can see online.
Deputy Minister of the Digital Economy Eranga Weeraratne said discussions are underway to explore possible restrictions on social media use by underage students and children, following a rise in incidents linked to online platforms.
He noted that the decision-making authority for such restrictions rests with the Ministry of Mass Media or the Education Ministry, and that technical support would be provided once a policy is approved.
The renewed debate comes after a controversial incident involving an alleged close relationship between a school head prefect and three female teachers, with related videos circulating widely on social media. Weeraratne said the viral spread of the content caused serious harm to the personal lives of both schoolchildren and teachers, and emphasised that disciplinary action should follow a full investigation.
“We have not yet reached a final decision, but the country must address the damage caused to the minds of underage children by social media content,” he said.
He added that social media platforms should work with local telecom companies to implement restrictions in Sri Lanka, noting that many other countries have already done so. “The technical capability exists and can be applied here,” he said.
However, Weeraratne stressed that any restriction must be part of a formal government policy and that a comprehensive plan is required before enforcement.
Globally, governments are increasingly tightening controls on children’s social media access due to concerns over cyberbullying, exposure to harmful content, and mental health risks. While most platforms set a minimum age of 13, enforcement remains weak, prompting measures such as stricter age verification, parental consent, and content filters.
Australia has passed legislation banning social media use for children under 16 starting December 2025. European countries like France, Denmark, and the United Kingdom are moving toward stricter age limits and mandatory parental consent, while China enforces “minor mode” restrictions controlling screen time and content for users under 18.
In the United States, Florida has banned social media for children under 14, while Utah requires parental consent for minors. France’s National Assembly has also backed a bill banning social media access for under-15s, supported by President Emmanuel Macron.
As Sri Lanka considers similar measures, the proposal is expected to spark debate over child protection, parental responsibility, digital rights, and whether restricting access is a genuine solution or merely a temporary fix to deeper societal issues.
