Iraq Bans Roblox Platform to Protect Minors and Uphold Moral Values
In a significant move, Iraq has officially banned the popular online gaming platform Roblox. The country’s communications ministry announced the decision, citing the protection of social order and moral values as the primary motivation. The ban, enacted in accordance with a Supreme Court decision, aims to ensure the safety of internet users within the nation. This action highlights growing global concerns about the safety of younger users on massive, user-generated online platforms.
The ministry’s statement detailed several specific reasons for the prohibition. It alleged that Roblox contains sexual content, blasphemous material, and widespread use of foul language. Furthermore, the platform was criticized for its direct communication features, which the Iraqi government stated exposes minors to high risks of online blackmail and exploitation. The move is framed as a protective measure to shield young people from these “numerous security and social risks” and to uphold the country’s social norms.
A Global Pattern of Scrutiny
Iraq’s decision is part of a wider international pattern of increased scrutiny on Roblox. Just last month, the platform agreed to implement new safety measures in Australia after an investigation by the country’s online watchdog. To curb the risk of adult grooming, Roblox disabled direct chat for Australian users who have not verified their age. It also blocked adults from communicating with users known to be under 16. These concessions show a recognition by the company of the persistent safety challenges on its platform.
Balancing Safety and a Global Community
Roblox boasts a massive daily user base of around 100 million people, with company data indicating that under-13s account for approximately 40% of its users in 2024. This vast, young audience is precisely why governments are paying closer attention. The Iraqi ban represents one of the most severe actions taken against the platform by a national government. It underscores the difficult balance platforms must strike between fostering creative, social communities and implementing robust safety measures to protect their most vulnerable users from harm.
