Türkiye to implement social media restrictions for users under 16 this year

Türkiye will introduce new regulations this year restricting social media use for children under 16, Transport and Infrastructure Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu said.

Uraloglu, speaking in a televised interview with Turkish media outlet, TRT Haber, emphasized the importance of protecting children and noted that similar measures have been implemented in various countries worldwide.

Social media restrictions for minors

The planned regulation aims to limit social media access for users under 16. Uraloglu said the legal framework is expected to be completed within the year.

“We plan to implement the regulation restricting social media use for children under 16 this year,” he stated.

The minister also addressed concerns about online gaming platforms, specifically Roblox and Discord, which have faced access restrictions. He clarified that courts are reviewing their cases and that if inappropriate content is removed, access could be restored.

“Access restrictions are enforced by court decisions,” Uraloglu added, highlighting that measures are in place to curb illegal online gambling as well.

Zangezur Corridor development update

Uraloglu also provided updates on Türkiye’s infrastructure projects, including the Zangezur Corridor, a strategic route connecting Türkiye to Azerbaijan.

“More than 50% of Azerbaijan’s section of the Zangezur Corridor is complete. We will start work on our side this year, depending on weather conditions. Once completed, it will provide Türkiye with direct access to Azerbaijan and the Turkic world,” he said.

Development Road Project to reduce trade costs

Discussing Türkiye’s role in global trade routes, Uraloglu said the Development Road Project will significantly cut transportation costs and improve logistics efficiency.

“The Development Road Project will reduce costs. Cargo from China will reach London in 25 days,” he noted. He also mentioned a four-nation agreement between Iraq, Türkiye, Qatar, and the UAE, with a ministerial meeting planned to finalize financing and move the project forward.

Türkiye to roll out 5G by 2026

Türkiye is preparing for a nationwide 5G rollout, with Uraloglu confirming that the auction will be held this year.

“5G will provide nearly 10 times faster connectivity. We will conduct the auction this year and begin nationwide implementation in 2026,” he said.

Currently, 5G is being tested at 34 locations across Türkiye, including Istanbul Airport.

Turksat 6A satellite nears full deployment

Uraloglu also announced that Turksat 6A, Türkiye’s first domestically produced communications satellite, has successfully passed all tests and is nearing operational status.

“Turksat 6A has completed all tests successfully. We will officially announce its launch in March,” he stated.