Turkey’s new legislation requires social media platforms to introduce safeguards for young people, including age verification. (EPA Images pic)ISTANBUL: Turkey on Saturday formally declared a ban on the use of social media for under-15s, scheduled to come into effect on Nov 1.

It has joined a growing number of countries legislating to protect children and teenagers from the harmful effects of online platforms.

The official state journal published the decision following the adoption of a law by parliament in April.

It stipulates that social media providers must "take the necessary technical and administrative measures, including age verification, to implement" protections for young people.