Overview
- Digital affairs minister Karsten Wildberger called a prohibition on minors’ social media use “more than justified,” citing risks to cognitive and emotional development.
- The government is considering device‑free periods in schools to bolster deep learning and sustained attention as part of a broader youth‑protection strategy.
- A new INSA survey shows about 60% of Germans support blocking social networks for under‑16s, with roughly a quarter opposed.
- Germany’s Commission on Child and Youth Protection is drafting technical recommendations that would specify age thresholds and enforcement mechanisms for lawmakers.
- Australia recently put an under‑16 ban into force covering major platforms and requiring age checks, account removals, and fines of about US$33 million for violations.