Indonesia’s Proposal to Set Minimum Age for Social Media Access Gains Strong Parental Support

Introduction: A Growing Concern for Child Safety Online

In recent years, the digital landscape has evolved rapidly, bringing both opportunities and challenges, particularly for children. With the rise of social media, concerns about its impact on young users have grown, prompting governments worldwide to consider stricter regulations. In Indonesia, a proposal to set a minimum age for social media access has garnered significant attention and support, particularly from parents. A survey conducted by YouGov, a global public opinion and data company, revealed that 84% of Indonesian parents back this proposal, with mothers showing higher support than fathers. This initiative is part of a broader effort to protect children from the potential harms of social media, mirroring similar steps taken in countries like Australia, which has banned children under 16 from accessing social media platforms.

Parental Concerns Driving Support for Stricter Regulations

The primary motivation behind the Indonesian government’s proposal is to address the widespread concerns among parents about the safety of their children online. According to the YouGov survey, exposure to age-inappropriate content tops the list of worries for 81% of parents. This concern is followed by issues such as addiction or excessive screen time (74%), negative mental health impacts (70%), and the spread of misinformation (62%). These findings underscore the growing awareness among parents of the potential risks associated with unrestricted social media use. The survey, which polled 892 adults aged 18 and above—all of whom have at least one child under 18—highlights the urgent need for measures to safeguard children in the digital age.

Mothers Lead the Charge in Supporting the Proposal

The survey also shed light on a notable gender divide in support for the proposed regulation. A higher percentage of mothers (88%) expressed approval compared to fathers (81%). This disparity suggests that mothers may be more acutely aware of the challenges of raising children in a world dominated by social media. Their heightened concern could stem from their often more hands-on role in childcare, making them more attuned to the daily risks their children face online. This finding also indicates that policymakers would do well to consider the perspectives of mothers when shaping such regulations.

Skepticism About the Effectiveness of the Proposed Legislation

While the majority of parents surveyed support the idea of setting a minimum age for social media access, there is less confidence in its practical effectiveness. Only 50% of parents believe the legislation will successfully control their children’s online presence, while 17% are skeptical, and 33% remain neutral. These findings suggest that while parents appreciate the government’s intention to protect children, many are unsure whether such a law will achieve its intended goals. This skepticism could stem from the challenges of enforcing age restrictions in the digital realm, where children often find creative ways to bypass restrictions. For the legislation to succeed, the government may need to implement robust enforcement mechanisms and educational campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of age-appropriate online behavior.

TikTok and X Perceived as High-Risk Platforms

The survey also revealed that certain social media platforms are viewed with greater concern than others. TikTok, known for its short-form videos, was identified as the “most dangerous” platform by 58% of respondents, followed closely by X (formerly Twitter) at 51%. These findings likely reflect the perception that platforms with high engagement and viral content, such as TikTok, may expose children to inappropriate material more easily. On the other hand, platforms like YouTube and Instagram were seen as relatively safer, although many parents maintained a neutral stance on their potential dangers. Understanding the perceived risks of specific platforms could help policymakers and tech companies design targeted strategies to enhance child safety online.

Conclusion: A Balanced Approach to Safeguarding Children in the Digital Age

The Indonesian government’s proposal to set a minimum age for social media access reflects a growing global trend toward stricter digital regulations aimed at protecting children. With 84% of parents supporting the initiative, there is clear momentum behind this effort. However, the challenges of enforcement and the skepticism expressed by some parents highlight the need for a balanced approach. By engaging with parents, tech companies, and other stakeholders, the government can craft policies that are both effective and realistic. Moreover, addressing the specific risks associated with platforms like TikTok and X while educating families about online safety will be crucial in creating a safer digital environment for Indonesia’s children. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, so too must the measures taken to protect young users—ensuring they can navigate the internet confidently and securely.