Germany Considers Social Media Ban for Children Under 16

Preparation for Social Media Regulation A comprehensive legal framework is being prepared in Germany to enhance the safety of children on digital platforms. Friedrich Merz, leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), announced his support for social media restrictions currently being discussed across Europe. The government plans to submit a draft aimed at limiting social media use for children under 16 to the cabinet by the summer months. The regulation aims to implement stricter oversight of content policies and algorithms on platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, X, and TikTok. Merz warned that excessive screen time could lead to social behavioral disorders and highlighted the threat that AI-supported disinformation poses to democratic societies. Gradual Restriction Model The proposal, prepared by the CDU and the Social Democratic Party (SPD), envisions a gradual restriction model based on age groups. According to the draft, social media use would be completely prohibited for children under 14. For users aged 14 to 16, platforms would be required to provide age-appropriate content. The new rules also include a requirement for platforms to keep content-recommendation algorithms turned off by default, making them active only upon user request. This step is expected to significantly impact the engagement-oriented business models of social media platforms. The legislative process for the regulation is anticipated to continue in parliament during the second half of the year.