The Ministry of Communication Technology in Tunisia has introduced new regulations requiring internet service providers to provide a set of parental control mechanisms. This move aims to give parents more tools to monitor and control their children's access to the internet. The new rules were adopted by the National Telecommunications Instance (INT) on June 10, 2026, as part of its efforts to protect consumers.
The new parental control system will allow parents to filter access to inappropriate websites using a blacklist. They will also be able to identify and manage devices connected to the network and set time limits for internet access. This approach is designed to provide parents with practical tools to control their children's browsing habits, rather than just offering general recommendations. Internet providers will be required to inform their subscribers about these tools and provide instructions on how to activate, deactivate, and use them.
Internet service providers will also be required to provide a guide or document that details the configuration of these parental control tools. This obligation is part of an existing regulatory framework that dates back to a decree governing the activity of internet service providers. The decree already requires the implementation of solutions that enable secure browsing for children and inform subscribers about this service.
In addition to the basic parental control mechanisms, internet providers will also have the option to offer more advanced solutions, such as applications, digital platforms, or other services. If these services are paid, their cost will be included in the subscription bill. Subscribers will also have the option to cancel these services at any time.
The new regulations also require internet service providers to include an explicit clause in their subscription contracts regarding child protection functionality. The provider must specify the tools offered, their characteristics, and their usage modalities. This move aims to provide parents with more control over their children's online activities.
The new regulations do not imply that internet providers will monitor children's browsing habits individually. Instead, they aim to make parental control tools available to parents, allowing them to set their own rules for internet access. The INT's decision is part of a broader effort to enhance children's safety in the digital space.
The new rules build on existing regulations in Tunisia, which have required secure browsing for children on the internet since 2014. The Ministry of Communication Technology has presented this move as a way to strengthen child safety in the digital space. Internet providers will be required to comply with these new regulations, providing parents with more tools to monitor and control their children's online activities.
Key points
- Internet providers in Tunisia will be required to offer parental control mechanisms, including a blacklist of inappropriate websites and time limits for internet access.
- The new regulations also allow for more advanced parental control solutions, such as applications and digital platforms, to be offered by internet providers.
- Internet providers must include an explicit clause in their subscription contracts regarding child protection functionality and provide instructions on how to use the parental control tools.
