Government Launches Public Consultation On Major Social Media Reform To Protect Children And Vulnerable Groups

The government has launched a Green Paper on social media to stimulate a public consultation aimed at strengthening protection for children, adolescents and vulnerable individuals.

The Green Paper was published during a press conference addressed by the Minister for Social Policy and Children’s Rights, Michael Falzon and the Parliamentary Secretary for Equality and Reforms, Rebecca Buttigieg.

Minister Michael Falzon stated that it is evident there remains a lack of awareness regarding the appropriate regulatory age for the use of social media platforms.

The Minister for Social Policy emphasised that social media exerts certain pressures, particularly those linked to the pursuit of perfection and issues arising from cyberbullying.

“Therefore, the government is launching this consultation to help shape a legislative framework intended to provide stronger safeguards, especially for vulnerable groups such as children and adolescents,” Minister Falzon affirmed.

Parliamentary Secretary Rebecca Buttigieg noted that social media has created numerous realities, many positive, but others that are having a negative impact – particularly on children, adolescents and vulnerable individuals.

She stated that regulating social media is not straightforward due to its international nature.

“There is a growing recognition that social media platforms cannot continue to operate without governments and authorities worldwide examining their effects,” Buttigieg said.

She explained that a technical committee has begun its work to formulate recommendations for the government on how vulnerable individuals can be protected on social media and how digital education can be strengthened – including among adults, who are also exposed to the effects of social media.

The Parliamentary Secretary added that this Green Paper sets out the facts and poses a series of questions to provide a platform for discussion and consultation, driven by the aim of protecting children and vulnerable people.

Buttigieg stressed that an important aspect of this consultation is that any reform must fully respect the fundamental right to freedom of expression.

Those wishing to participate in the consultation may do so by visiting the website until 27th February 2026. 

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