Madrid: Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has said his government will not back down from plans to restrict social media access for children, despite strong criticism from some of the world’s most powerful technology leaders.
Speaking this week, Sanchez said Spain would not be swayed by what he described as tech oligarchs who oppose tighter rules on online platforms. His comments come as the government moves forward with a proposal to ban children under the age of 16 from using social media unless their age can be verified.
The Spanish leader said the measures are aimed at protecting young people from harmful content, misinformation and online manipulation. He added that governments have a duty to act when digital platforms fail to safeguard users, especially minors.
The proposed rules would require social media companies to introduce stricter age checks and could make senior executives personally accountable if platforms allow illegal or hateful content to spread. Sanchez has also floated ideas such as limiting online anonymity and linking social media profiles to a European digital identity system.
The plans have triggered sharp reactions from some technology figures. Elon Musk and Telegram founder Pavel Durov have both criticised the proposals, warning that they could lead to censorship and restrict free expression. Sanchez responded by accusing tech leaders of spreading false claims about the intentions of the law.
Spain’s move follows similar debates in other countries. Australia has already approved a ban on social media use for under 16s, while France, Britain, Greece and several other European nations are considering comparable steps. Governments argue that stronger regulation is needed to address growing concerns about children’s mental health and online safety.
Spain’s draft legislation is still being discussed, but the government has signalled it is determined to press ahead. Sanchez said the goal is not to silence debate but to ensure that digital spaces are safer and more responsible, especially for younger users.