Imagine being a 14-year-old refugee, living in a new country, and suddenly being told you can no longer connect with your loved ones through social media. This is the reality for Tereza Hussein, a young girl living in Darwin, Australia, who relies on platforms like Instagram and Snapchat to stay in touch with her grandmother whom she has never met in person.
For Hussein, social media is more than just a way to pass the time – it is her lifeline to her past, her home, and her family. Despite rarely posting herself, she values the ability to see photos and videos from her loved ones, discussing them with friends and staying connected in a world that often feels isolating.
Hussein’s story sheds light on the impact of Australia’s proposed social media ban, which aims to protect teenagers from online dangers but risks cutting off vital connections for young refugees like her. It is a reminder that behind every policy decision, there are real people whose lives are deeply affected.