Debate in Germany on Digital Child Protection.. Merz Supports Restricting Social Media Use

The proposal to impose restrictions on social media use for minors has sparked a wide discussion in Germany, after Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced his support for measures that limit children's and teenagers' use of these platforms, warning of their effects on behavior and social development.

Warnings About the Impact of Screens on Youth Behavior

Merz confirmed that excessive screen use has become a real challenge for raising children, pointing out that some teenagers spend up to five hours a day online. He added that complete reliance on the virtual world for building social relationships may lead to behavioral problems and a decline in real social interaction, according to Reuters.

Proposal to Raise the Age for Using Digital Platforms

Merz's stance comes ahead of the upcoming general conference of the Christian Democratic Union of Germany, where the party branch in Schleswig-Holstein proposed an initiative to set the minimum age for using social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook at 16, along with a mandatory age verification system for users.

Gradual Proposals Within the Governing Coalition

The German Chancellor also expressed his support for a proposal put forward by the Social Democratic Party, the government's partner, which calls for a gradual model starting with a complete ban on social media use for children under 14.

Child Protection Between Education and Restriction

Merz emphasized that children need sufficient time for play, learning, and academic focus away from digital pressures, affirming that teaching them how to use electronic media is essential, but it should be done thoughtfully and away from excessive exposure from an early age.

Anticipated Discussions on Implementation Mechanisms

For his part, Minister of the Chancellery Thorsten Frei expects the upcoming party conference in Stuttgart to witness extensive discussions regarding the mechanisms for implementing the proposed restrictions, explaining that the goal is to achieve a balance between protecting children from the dangers of hate, misinformation, and psychological pressures, and enabling them to acquire digital skills and benefit from the opportunities provided by the electronic world.

Escalating European Debate on Minors and Platforms

The German discussion is part of a broader European trend to study the impact of social media on youth, amid increasing calls for legislation to ensure a safer digital environment for children and teenagers.