Portugal’s parliament has approved legislation that would restrict minors’ access to social media platforms by requiring parental authorization for users under the age of 16, making it one of Europe’s most concrete legislative steps toward regulating youth activity online.

The proposal, introduced by the Social Democratic Party (PSD), mandates explicit, verified parental consent for minors aged 13 to 16 before accessing social networks, reinforcing an existing prohibition on access for children under 13. 

Arguing that the measure is intended to protect young people from cyberbullying, harmful content, and predatory behavior, PSD lawmaker Paulo Marcelo stated, “We have to protect our children… we don’t intend to prohibit for the sake of prohibiting.” The goal is to empower families to “accompany and control” online activity, he stressed.

Under the proposed framework, parental authorization would be verified through Portugal’s Digital Mobile Key authentication system, and platforms would be required to implement compatible age-verification mechanisms.

The measure has received broad political backing while also drawing debate over implementation. Socialist Pedro Delgado Alves indicated general support, telling the press that the initiative aligns with party priorities and should proceed to committee review. “This is indeed a problem… Several countries are already dealing with legislative processes to protect youth online,” he stated.

While opposition voices have raised concerns about privacy and practicality, the legislation, approved in an initial vote by a large parliamentary margin, still requires committee review and potential amendment before a final vote.

PAJ/Staff