📱 SL to Formulate Guidelines on Social Media for Under-16s

The Sri Lankan government is actively working to address the impact of social media on minors, aiming to balance digital education with child safety. • Current Policy Initiatives: Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya announced that a successful pilot project is underway to reduce social media usage among children under 16. National guidelines and a mental health awareness program are currently being formulated. • Legislative Framework: A Private Member’s Bill, the _Social Media Minimum Age Bill_, is pending in Parliament. If passed, it will legally prohibit children under 16 from accessing social media platforms to boost online safety. • The Digital Dilemma: Government action faces minor hurdles as it simultaneously rolls out a school digitalization program. This program requires internet access for online studies, which can inadvertently lead students to social media. • Global Alignment: Sri Lanka's moves align with global trends. Countries like Australia, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the UK have already restricted access or implemented features like overnight curfues for teenagers to protect mental health. The final recommendations on Sri Lanka's approach are expected to be submitted to Cabinet before the end of 2026.