Russia may introduce significant restrictions on access to social networks and AI chatbots for minors in 2027–2028. According to my information, this initiative is already being discussed at a high level and is a logical continuation of the global trend toward regulating the digital space.
Global Trend and Russian Specifics
This refers to a ban for children under 14, which could affect not only social networks but also video games and AI assistants. The reasoning is standard: excessive time online and consumption of short-form content worsen eyesight, posture, motor skills, and, critically, the ability to concentrate on complex information. This trend is gaining momentum worldwide—from Australia and the European Union to China and Turkey. In the EU, for example, France is preparing to block access for those under 15, Spain for those under 16, and in Greece, restrictions for audiences under 15 will take effect on January 1, 2027.
A Dual Strategy: Ban and Teach
Interestingly, alongside the restrictions, it is proposed to introduce basic lessons on using AI starting at age 14. This fits into the already adopted school curriculum for early AI education. Starting September 1, 2026, schools will introduce an "Artificial Intelligence" profile as part of advanced computer science. This reveals a clear strategy: on one hand, shield children from uncontrolled use of technology; on the other, systematically teach them how to work with it.
Risks and Contradictions
Here lies a key contradiction. Research conducted by leading universities (CMU, Oxford, MIT, UCLA) shows that active use of neural networks reduces the ability to solve problems independently. According to VTsIOM data, about 70% of Russian citizens already use AI. If school practices adopt "solve it for me" scenarios rather than "guide me," the educational effect could be directly opposite to the stated goals.
My analysis: Restricting children's access to social networks and AI is an inevitable step already taken by many countries. However, the key issue is not the ban itself but the quality of the alternative. If the state simply "disconnects" children from the digital world without offering them a high-quality educational and developmental environment, we risk raising a generation that lags behind in technological literacy compared to peers from more liberal jurisdictions. Balancing protection and development—that is the main challenge for the regulator.