A controversial proposal in Tajikistan to ban social media use for children under the age of 14 has sparked public and expert debate. While many agree that the issue requires urgent attention, critics argue that education, digital literacy, and parental involvement offer more effective solutions than blanket prohibitions.
Parliamentary Push for Stricter Controls
The initiative was introduced by lawmaker Dilnoza Ahmadzoda in an article in Narodnaya Gazeta. She proposed banning access to social media for children under 14 and requiring written parental consent for adolescents aged 14 to 17.
Ahmadzoda pointed out that amendments to the Law on the Protection of Children’s Rights were already passed earlier this year, targeting false and harmful content. However, she contends that these changes do not go far enough.
“It is necessary to introduce further changes to ensure that children’s and teenagers’ use of social media is under control,” Ahmadzoda said.
Expert Concerns: “A Ban Is Not the Solution”
Experts caution that an outright ban may do more harm than good. Media literacy specialist Rustam Gulov warned that prohibitions often increase curiosity and drive youth online behavior underground.
“A ban is not the solution. If you forbid it, interest will only grow, and young people will find ways to hide their activity. Such measures push them backward in terms of technological development. Control is more effective,” Gulov said.
He noted that while platforms already impose age restrictions, children frequently bypass them using false birthdates or by accessing accounts through their parents’ devices. Gulov recommended closer collaboration with companies such as Meta to establish more effective content controls.
He also advocated for the inclusion of media literacy education in school programs.
“Children should learn from an early age how to use the internet and social networks responsibly and how to distinguish false or harmful information,” he said.
Another major concern, according to Gulov, is the lack of quality digital content in literary Tajik. As a result, many young users switch to Russian-language platforms.
“Social networks can serve as an educational tool, if there is enough quality content in Tajik,” he added.
Public Opinion in Dushanbe
Reactions among residents of the capital are mixed. Some favor tight restrictions, while others emphasize the potential benefits of social media in education and personal development.
Psychologist Nigina Mamadjonova opposes a complete ban but underscores the importance of parental responsibility.
“This is primarily the responsibility of parents. Unfortunately, most of them do not take it seriously,” she said.
Mamadjonova criticized the widespread practice of giving smartphones to children “for quick peace and quiet” without supervising their activity. She warned that this leaves children vulnerable to cyberbullying, manipulation, and online predators.
She also argued that preschoolers should not use phones at all, as screen time isolates them from physical activity and social interaction. For older children, she supports promoting digital literacy and steering them toward constructive online content.
Mixed Results Abroad
Other countries have implemented similar restrictions with varying degrees of success. In Australia, minors under 16 are prohibited from using platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, with strict penalties for violations. France has explored comparable legislation.
Nepal, however, provides a cautionary tale. A government-imposed ban on social media sparked widespread unrest, particularly among young people. The resulting protests led to 19 deaths, over 100 injuries, and the eventual collapse of the government responsible for the measure.
