Pakistan Social Media Ban: Neighbouring Country Considers Australia-Style Restrictions For Minors Under 16

Pakistan Social Media Ban: The Lahore High Court has taken up a proposal seeking to restrict children under the age of 16 from using social media platforms, signaling rising institutional concern over minors' online exposure in Pakistan. According to ARY News, the court has directed the federal government and relevant authorities to submit their responses by 10 February.

During the hearing, the bench observed that decisions related to regulating children's use of social media fall within the government's domain, not the judiciary's. Judges stressed that if any restriction is to be imposed, it must come through a formal policy framework approved by the government and implemented uniformly across the country.

The court highlighted the urgent need for clear rules governing online access for minors, particularly on popular platforms such as TikTok, Instagram and Facebook. It underlined that any policy must strike a balance between protecting children from online risks, safeguarding freedom of expression, and ensuring realistic enforcement in line with Pakistan's legal and social environment.

Political push behind social media restrictions for minors

The issue has already gained political traction. Earlier this month, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Senator Falak Naz raised similar concerns in the Senate, calling for a complete ban on social media use for children under 18. She warned that unchecked access exposes minors to harmful content, cyberbullying, privacy violations and psychological harm.

Senator Falak Naz formally brought the matter to the Senate through a calling attention notice. The discussion, chaired by Senator Sherry Rehman, acknowledged growing anxiety among parents and educators, who often struggle to regulate screen time and monitor children's digital activity.

Global precedents influence Pakistan's debate

Pakistan's debate unfolds as several countries worldwide tighten rules on children's access to social media. Australia recently introduced a nationwide ban on social media use for children under 16, becoming the first country to enforce such strict controls.

Under the Australian law, major platforms including TikTok, YouTube, Instagram and Facebook are required to block underage users or face penalties of up to A$49.5 million. While child rights groups have welcomed the move, technology companies and free speech advocates have raised concerns over enforcement and personal freedoms.

As the Lahore High Court awaits the government's response, the case is expected to play a key role in shaping how Pakistan regulates minors' online activity and balances child safety with digital rights in the years ahead.