German Chancellor Merz Supports Social Media Ban for Children: "Will We Allow Society to Be Undermined?"

Emphasis on Disinformation and Social Security German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has advocated for strict measures against the negative impacts of social media platforms on children. Stating that intentionally spread fake news and AI-supported manipulations threaten the social fabric, Merz expressed that legal restrictions have become inevitable to protect young people from these channels. He emphasized that society should not stand by while being undermined by such attacks from both internal and external sources. The Power of Algorithms and a Changing Perspective Merz admitted that he previously held a more flexible view on the issue but had underestimated the influence of algorithms and targeted content. Pointing out that 14-year-olds spend an average of five and a half hours a day online, the Chancellor rejected arguments that young people should be gradually introduced to social media, comparing such views to "teaching six-year-olds how to drink alcohol." He noted that the uncontrolled spread of fake content generated by artificial intelligence poses a significant risk to the youth. Rising Wave of Bans Across Europe A motion proposing a ban on access to platforms like TikTok and Instagram for children under the age of 16 is expected to be discussed at the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) conference. In addition to Germany, countries such as Spain, Greece, France, and the United Kingdom are also considering social media restrictions similar to those initiated by Australia. As pressure from the federal government increases, negotiations between states are expected to be decisive in clarifying the rules.