Greece Proposes Requiring Real Identity Verification on Social Media

Greece plans to ban anonymity on social media. The government says the measure will reduce online toxicity, harassment, fake news, and hate speech. Digital Governance Minister Dimitris Papastergiou said people should express opinions but only with their real identities so they can be held responsible for what they post.

The plan, which is being developed under Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, would require social media platforms to verify users' real identities. Officials say they are not banning all pseudonyms but want every account linked to a real person. Government officials say they want to create a healthier online environment ahead of the 2027 elections.

Critics say the move will chill free speech and be difficult to enforce. com reported the full details of the proposal and the competing arguments surrounding it.

Papastergiou's statements reflect the administration's position that real-name requirements will promote accountability without eliminating all forms of online expression.