Baku: Deputy Minister of Digital Development and Transport Rashad Hasanov clarified that the new law aims to enhance oversight rather than shut down social networks. During a public discussion on the draft law proposing amendments to the existing laws on information and child protection, Hasanov highlighted the challenges parents face in monitoring their children's social network usage.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Hasanov presented statistics indicating that 43 percent of parents struggle to fully control their children's use of social networks. He assured that the law does not intend to block social networks but seeks to implement supervisory mechanisms for users aged 16-18. The amendments also propose to ban targeted advertisements and harmful content for minors, and prohibit the commercial use of age data.

Hasanov further mentioned that social media platforms are reportedly not entirely prepared to comply with the new regulations. If they fail to meet the requirements, sanctions are expected to be imposed.

He also shared that a significant majority, 93 percent, of parents with school-age children in Azerbaijan, support these legislative changes. However, he acknowledged that while the amendments are a step forward, they will not fully resolve the issues at hand. He emphasized the role of both state institutions and parents in ensuring the safe usage of social networks by children.