The Role of The State in Regulating Access to Social Media for Children: A Legal and Human Rights Perspective

Abstract

The rapid advancement of digital technology and the high rate of social media use among children have raised significant concerns regarding online risks, including exposure to harmful content, digital exploitation, and psychological development disorders. This study examines the role of the state in regulating children's access to social media from legal and human rights perspectives. Employing a normative juridical method with a statutory and conceptual approach, this research analyses national and international regulatory frameworks governing child protection in digital spaces. The study evaluates the extent to which access restriction policies align with human rights principles, including the best interests of the child, proportionality, and non-discrimination. The findings reveal that regulating children's social media access requires a balanced approach between protection and the fulfilment of rights. The state must act not only as a regulator but also as a facilitator of digital education and a supervisor of platform operators. The study concludes that adaptive, collaborative, and human rights-based policies are necessary to create a safe and child-friendly digital ecosystem. Recommendations include strengthening national legislation, enhancing digital literacy programmes, and promoting multi-stakeholder cooperation among government agencies, technology platforms, and families.