13.04.2026 21:13
The 'social media' regulation, which is also on the agenda in Turkey, has been implemented in Gabon. All real and legal persons in the country who wish to use social media are now required to declare their identity information. The regulation, which sets the minimum age limit for social media accounts at 16, has banned individuals below this age from opening accounts and holds parents responsible for the digital activities of children under 16.
A presidential decree regulating the use of social media and digital platforms comprehensively and imposing an identity requirement has come into effect in Gabon.
ACCESS TO SOCIAL MEDIA WITH IDENTITY
According to the decree published in the Official Gazette, all real and legal persons wishing to use social media in the country are now required to declare their identity information. Users must provide a verifiable digital identity with information such as name, surname, address, and phone number, as well as, when necessary, a national identity number.
The decree covers all social media content accessible in Gabon while also regulating all digital services, whether free or paid. According to the regulation, users are held directly responsible for the content they share, and legal liability arises if they contribute to the production, sharing, or dissemination of illegal content.
BANNED FOR UNDER 16
The regulation sets the minimum age limit for social media accounts at 16, prohibiting individuals below this age from opening accounts and holding parents responsible for the digital activities of children under 16. Along with the decree, extensive obligations have been imposed on social media platforms. Platforms are required to verify user identities, remove illegal content, store relevant data, and, when necessary, transmit it to authorized authorities.
Additionally, the decree includes special regulations regarding content generated by artificial intelligence, banning content created without consent, fake content that could disrupt public order, and sexual content involving children. The regulation, granting broad powers to judicial authorities, allows for the suspension of social media accounts, removal of content, and temporary restriction of platform access when deemed necessary.
MONETARY PENALTIES
According to the decree, which foresees imprisonment and monetary penalties for violations, users who do not declare their identity information may face up to 1 year of imprisonment and fines ranging from 5 million CFA francs (approximately 400 thousand Turkish lira) to 50 million CFA francs (approximately 4 million Turkish lira). The regulation also stipulates up to 5 years of imprisonment for opening an account using someone else's identity or producing misleading content.