Prime Minister Edi Rama has called for a national debate on restricting minors’ access to social media, including whether the minimum age should be 16 or 18.
Speaking at a meeting of the National Council for the Rights and Protection of Children on October 30, Rama said the growing influence of the digital world and young people’s exposure to violent content required a coordinated response from institutions, parents and schools.
He announced that the government would begin consultations with parents and teachers across the country to discuss possible age restrictions and limits on minors opening personal social media accounts.
Rama said several democratic countries had already started considering similar measures. However, he stressed the need for a broad discussion before Albania decides how to proceed.
Beyond online safety, the prime minister called for more social, artistic and cultural activities for children. He said schools and civil society organisations should offer opportunities in areas such as theatre, painting, crafts, film and photography, alongside sports.
In this context, Rama announced plans to extend the school day from the next academic year. The government has allocated a special budget to keep children at school until 5 p.m., allowing parents to continue working while their children take part in supervised activities.
He said the extended school programme would give children a more structured day, with additional opportunities to learn, develop skills and participate in social activities.
Rama also raised concerns about intimidation and pressure in public debate. He insisted that everyone must have the freedom to express their views without facing threats or violence because of their opinions.
He said he had received messages from students who feared revealing their identities, as well as from parents who felt unable to protect their children from threatening behaviour.
The prime minister called on public institutions and civil society organisations to continue discussions in the coming months and develop a common approach to protecting children’s rights, safety and well-being.
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