The Government has launched a public consultation on the regulation of social media use among minors.
The initiative forms part of a newly published Green Paper aimed at addressing the growing impact of social media on children's mental health and wellbeing. The document is being published with the aim of providing a platform for the public to share their views at this stage of drafting regulations for the sector, the consultation document reads.
It focuses on asking questions, rather than make direct proposals. Questions include: "Do you think the current age and access limits for social media platforms (usually 13 years old) are appropriate and sufficient, or should they be strengthened? What is the appropriate minimum age for someone to be on social media? What additional measures should be taken to protect children and adolescents from harmful content? What sanctions should there be regarding accounts on these platforms under the established age limits? Should verification systems be strengthened to prevent fake profiles?"
Parliamentary Secretary Rebecca Buttigieg said that while many teenagers use social media platforms positively - including to promote part-time work at local events, others use it to bully or harm their peers. She noted that there are "no easy answers", and stressed the need to listen to as many involved individuals as possible during the consultation process. The reform's core aims include protecting children and vulnerable groups, maintaining freedom of expression without causing harm, and improving the overall online experience.
Social Policy Minister Michael Falzon highlighted rising global concerns about excessive social media use, pointing to countries considering bans for under-16s, and data mentioned how 12-14% of people in Switzerland struggle with social media overuse.
He added that cases of self-harm reported by medical professionals has tripled in Malta, describing social media as having become the "prosecutor, judge, and jury" capable of damaging reputations instantly.
"This Green Paper is being published with the aim of seeking your views and expectations on how we should address the impact of social media on society, particularly among minors. It also recognises the reality that technological developments are continuous, and therefore new realities are constantly emerging. It further acknowledges the value of discussing and addressing this issue at the level of the European Union, where Malta must continue to contribute actively," the document itself reads.
The Green Paper aligns with ongoing European initiatives, including the European Commission's expert panel on platform governance and the newly implemented AI Act, which extends traditional media standards to digital platforms, it was said. It also reflects the Malta Children's Policy Framework 2024 - 2030, which emphasizes the need for safer digital environments for minors.
The Government's 2025 Social Plan for Families calls for discussions on enforcing age restrictions and developing effective monitoring systems in collaboration with parents and relevant parties. A technical committee, established in October 2025, is currently preparing recommendations for the next stages of the reform.
The public is invited to submit their feedback on the proposed measures until 27 February 2026 via publicconsultation.gov.mt