Kazakh Lawmakers Debate Age Limits for Social Media and Smartphone Use in Schools

During the first reading of the draft Digital Code in Kazakhstan’s parliament, MP Askhat Aimagambetov has proposed introducing age restrictions for social media access, highlighting that children as young as 5-6 use platforms like TikTok and Instagram without parental consent or verification.

Aimagambetov referenced international practices, noting countries like Denmark and Australia restrict social media for children under 15-16, while the US, UK, and Ireland require parental consent and verification, The Caspian Post reports via Kazakh media.

He suggested similar rules could be applied under the new Digital Code.

The MP also addressed smartphone use in schools, citing positive results from top Kazakh schools like NIS and BIL, where bans improved student communication and academic performance.

Responding, Deputy Minister of AI and Digital Development Dmitriy Mun emphasized that while some content restrictions exist, internet access remains crucial for economic development, and the draft Digital Code does not currently include a smartphone ban. He stressed the importance of educating the next generation to use technology, AI, and the internet responsibly.

The debate aligns with broader global trends, as the EU is also considering age limits for social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram.