Egypt lawmakers draft Bill to curb ‘Digital Chaos’ among Youth

Egypt’s Parliament has begun work on legislation aimed at regulating children’s use of social media platforms, responding to growing concerns over what officials describe as the harmful impact of unregulated online exposure on young people.

In a statement issued late Sunday, the House of Representatives said it would coordinate with government ministries and specialist bodies to draft a law designed to protect children from online content that could influence their behavior and thinking. Lawmakers said the move seeks to end what they called the “digital disorder” affecting Egyptian youth.

The initiative follows remarks by President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi , who urged authorities to consider restricting children’s access to social media until they reach an age at which they can use such platforms responsibly. The president pointed to international efforts, particularly in Australia and the United Kingdom, where governments are reviewing or implementing age-based limits on social media use.

According to a 2024 study by the National Center for Social and Criminological Research, around half of Egyptians under the age of 18 actively use social media platforms . The report warned that many children are exposed to violent or inappropriate content, online harassment, and cyber abuse , raising concerns about mental health, privacy and social development.

While the exact provisions of the proposed law have not yet been finalized, lawmakers said it is expected to introduce age-related controls on social media access , with discussions focusing on restrictions for children and young teenagers , potentially those under 15 or 16 years old . The legislation may also require stronger parental consent mechanisms and tighter oversight of content aimed at minors.

Egypt’s proposal comes amid a global debate over children’s digital safety. In December, Australia became the first country to ban social media use for children under 16. The British government has announced plans to review similar restrictions, while French President Emmanuel Macron has called for accelerated legislation to prohibit social media access for children under 15 starting next school year.

Supporters of Egypt’s proposed law say regulation is necessary to shield children from excessive screen time and harmful online influences. Critics, however, caution that any restrictions must balance child protection with access to information and digital education.

Parliament is expected to hold consultations with technology experts, educators and child-protection specialists before presenting a draft bill for debate in the coming months.