Roblox and Discord Access Blocked: Causes and Consequences
One of the most preferred gaming platforms for children today Roblox, was blocked in Turkey last August. The reason behind this situation is that it contains content aimed at child abuse. In addition, the communication platform Discord also faced access bans for similar reasons. The situation of these two platforms in Turkey has had a great impact on families and children.
Statements by Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloğlu
Ulaştırma ve Altyapı Bakanı Abdulkadir Uraloglu, In a live broadcast he attended on Habertürk, he answered the question, “When will Discord and Roblox be opened?” Uraloğlu stated that some conditions must be met in order for both platforms to be reopened. These statements are very important for the future of these platforms with millions of users.
Roblox and Discord do not have a representative in Türkiye
Minister Uraloğlu, in his statement, said, “Roblox and Discord do not have representatives in Turkey,” and emphasized that the content of these platforms is not compatible with Turkish culture and beliefs. While most social media platforms have representatives in Turkey, the fact that these two platforms do not have representatives makes it difficult to control the content. Uraloğlu said, “Roblox has 15 million subscribers. Of course, it is possible to reopen it even though it edits the content we want.”
Families' Reactions and Children's Situation
During the Roblox shutdown process, many families questioned whether the platform had content suitable for their children. Uraloğlu stated that there were serious responses asking, “Were these included?” The children’s reaction to this situation is quite clear. However, families may not be aware of the dangers their children face in the game world. This situation creates a great difficulty in ensuring the safety of children.
Measures to Protect Children
Minister Uraloğlu stated that such platforms should regulate their content, saying, “We definitely want to protect our children.” His statement, “If they remove the content we want, it is possible for us to reopen Roblox,” carries a hopeful message about the future of the platforms. Uraloğlu stated that the fact that social media platforms are based abroad makes it difficult to control their content.
Foreign Sourced Platforms and Responsibilities
Social media platforms established abroad generally prioritize their own rules. Uraloğlu said, “Well, we have rules too. We warn those who don’t comply, impose fines, put up tapes and finally shut them down,” demonstrating Turkey’s determination to implement its own regulations. At this point, it is curious how social media platforms will proceed in the Turkish market.
Future Vision: Solution Expectation by 2025
Minister Uraloğlu stated that he thought important decisions would be made regarding these issues in 2025. He said, “We are talking to the relevant ministries. Our biggest bottleneck is being able to do this without taking on a prohibitionist guise,” and emphasized Turkey’s determination to protect its children. Discord’s appeal of the court decision and Roblox’s communication with Turkey necessitate following developments in this process.
As a result
The status of platforms such as Roblox and Discord in Turkey is of great importance in terms of children's safety. Informing families and regulating the content of the platforms plays a critical role in this process. Producing accessible solutions will ensure that both families and children are in a safe digital environment.
