Overview

• Linnemann said he is open to a national ban on social media for those under 16, calling for a broad public debate rather than immediate legislation.
• He argued heavy online exposure harms minors, citing depression and encounters with war, crime, violence and sexualized content that children cannot process.
• Pressed on feasibility, he acknowledged implementation would be difficult and indicated he is willing to be convinced by opposing arguments.
• Union parliamentary leader Jens Spahn backed a 16-year age threshold and, citing neuroscientists, likened TikTok’s impact on the brain to heroin.
• CSU leader Markus Söder rejects fixed age limits, while Australia has already barred under‑16s from social media and given platforms until December 10 to block underage sign-ups.