Monaco is intensifying its efforts to better regulate social media use among young people as concerns grow over the impact of excessive screen time on mental health, anxiety and wellbeing…
A proposed resolution aimed at strengthening protections for children under 15 is set to be discussed during a public legislative session on May 12th, as the Prince’s Government continues examining possible measures to limit harmful online exposure.
According to recent studies cited by Minister of Social Affairs and Health Christophe Robino, nearly 64 percent of secondary school students in Monaco spend between two and five hours per day on social media, while more than 30 percent exceed six hours daily during weekends and holidays.
Robino described social networks as both valuable communication tools and a growing source of concern, highlighting risks linked to cyberbullying, addiction, anxiety and declining self-esteem. He also pointed to the phenomenon of “doom scrolling” and warned that prolonged exposure can negatively affect concentration and cognitive health.
Monaco has already introduced restrictions on mobile phone use in schools, including secure pouches preventing access during lessons, alongside awareness programmes developed with organisations such as Action Innocence.
The Principality is now expanding its approach through new studies involving around 2,200 students and by encouraging greater accountability from digital platforms, particularly regarding age verification and limiting addictive content algorithms. Monaco will also host discussions on the issue during a Council of Europe event in Strasbourg this June.
Image: dole777