Merz is open to banning social media for children

Germany is considering tightening rules on children's use of social media. The Social Democrats (SPD) have recently supported a ban on access for children under the age of 14.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and his CDU party are also pushing for a ban on children under 16. Since social media regulation in Germany falls under the jurisdiction of the federal states, the adoption of uniform rules will require nationwide coordination.

According to SPD leader Lars Klingbeil, protecting young people from hate and violent content on the internet is a priority, reports DW. SPD lawmakers are proposing that platforms create special "youth versions" for the 14-16 age group without algorithmic recommendations, personalized content, endless scrolling, or automatic video playback.

For users over the age of 16, the option to turn off algorithmic recommendations should become the default setting.

(mja)