Stories from Turkey

Turkey has passed a law to enforce rigorous oversight of Steam and other digital gaming platforms. The legislation also extends increased scrutiny to social media networks within the country. This move follows broader regional trends of tightening digital content regulation. Minister Göktaş stated that Turkey aims to require gaming platforms with up to 10 million users to appoint a local representative. Failure to comply could result in administrative fines or a reduction in bandwidth by up to 90 percent via court order. The minister noted that the goal is regulation and finding a point of contact rather than banning services. Additionally, the ministry is considering new steps regarding VPN usage.

Minister Kacir announced plans to mobilize $10 billion in investments for data centers and artificial intelligence infrastructure. The initiative is intended to facilitate knowledge transfer and boost the national economy.

The United Kingdom has officially recognized Borsa Istanbul, Turkey's sole exchange operator. This recognition is a significant step for the Turkish stock market, potentially increasing foreign investment and integration into global financial systems. The move signifies growing economic ties between the UK and Turkey. Borsa Istanbul has been included in a prestigious global list according to reports from Dünya Gazetesi. This designation follows recent market developments and impacts international trading status for the Turkish exchange. Borsa Istanbul began the trading day at 14,594 points following a record high reached previously. The US Dollar saw a minor increase, surpassing the 45 Lira mark. The Euro is currently trading at 45 Lira.

The Turkish Ministry of National Education (MEB) has released a guide regarding the potential implementation of AI systems across all lessons. Efforts aim to address the impact of uncontrolled content and device usage on the younger generation. Future security measures will be determined based on individual school risk analyses. Turkey is launching an AI-supported prevention model to strengthen school security following recent school attacks. The system will utilize a social risk map to implement household and neighborhood-based measures. A six-month psychosocial support action plan is also being implemented in Maraş. Minister of Family and Social Services Mahinur Özdemir Göktaş announced a new initiative to strengthen early intervention systems following recent school attacks. The government is implementing a case-based prevention model supported by artificial intelligence.

The Turkish government in Ankara is moving to ban platforms such as Instagram and TikTok for children and adolescents. This legislative push follows similar regulatory trends seen in Australia and Indonesia. The move aims to restrict social media access for younger demographics within the country. Defense Industry President Haluk Görgün announced that the second Gökbey helicopter is scheduled for delivery in June. Görgün stated that a total of 83 Gökbey helicopters will be provided to various institutions. The helicopters will be handed over to the Turkish Land Forces following the gendarmerie.

The Turkish Parliament has voted in favor of a new law banning social media use for children under the age of 15. The legislation aims to regulate digital exposure for minors across the country. This move marks a significant step in Turkey's efforts to control online content consumption for younger demographics. Turkey is drafting legislation to ban children under 15 from using TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, and Facebook. The law is expected to be voted on in parliament during the second half of 2026. If passed, the restrictions are scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2027. Officials stated they are taking steps to increase the scope of preventative measures. A social risk map has been activated to help identify such cases early. The announcement was reported by Anadolu Agency.

Turkish officials are engaging in intensive diplomatic negotiations involving the UK and the US. The movement suggests a significant shift or intensification in regional diplomatic traffic. Minister Bolattan is conducting high-level diplomatic negotiations involving Azerbaijan and the United Kingdom.

Mia Teknoloji has submitted an application to the Capital Markets Board (SPK) to merge with Lider Sistem Teknolojileri. This strategic move aims to consolidate technology leadership within the sector.

The Turkish Grand National Assembly has passed a law banning social media access for users under the age of 15. Authorities are increasing precautionary measures and implementing a social risk assessment to prevent early exposure to digital risks. The initiative aims to increase preventative measures in cases where families remain indifferent to digital risks. The system will be managed through the Presidency of Security. Family and Social Services Minister Mahinur Özdemir Göktaş stated that a new regulation will be issued within six months. The measure aims to prevent digital and technology companies from leaving users to the discretion of algorithms. Interior Minister Mustafa Çiftçi also discussed a new security paradigm to combat drug trafficking by closing paths to crime.

Mia Teknoloji has applied to the Capital Markets Board (SPK) to merge with Lider Sistem Teknolojileri A.S. This move aims to consolidate the technology leadership of both entities within the Turkish market.