Social media ban for children and teenagers

At the end of 2025, Australia introduced a strict social media ban for under-16s – a move that has sparked heated debate, not only in Australia but across the globe. In Europe, and especially in Germany, the discussions between supporters and critics show no sign of abating. This article provides an overview of the current situation and considers whether a state-imposed ban could genuinely protect the mental health of our youth.

Australia takes the lead – will Europe follow?

Within the first month of the ban, major social media platforms suspended around 4.7 million accounts belonging to Australian teenagers. The threat of fines up to 49.5 million Australian dollars (about €28.5 million) has clearly had an effect. Whether this policy will actually have a positive impact on young people, however, remains to be seen.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has described the law as a “world-leading measure” and a source of national pride. Other countries are now considering similar steps. In France, the National Assembly has voted to ban social media for under-15s; if the Senate agrees, the law could take effect from September 2026, making France the first European country to follow Australia’s example.

Denmark is taking a different approach, proposing not a strict age limit, but rather parental consent for under-15s to access social media. The Netherlands, meanwhile, is pushing at EU level to raise the minimum age for social media from 13 to 15.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has announced a bill due already this February to protect children and young people from the 'digital Wild West'. This could entail more than just prohibiting social media for under-16s. The bill will also examine whether platform operators' executives can be held accountable for disseminating illegal content, hate speech and algorithmic manipulation.

In Germany, politicians from the CDU/CSU, SPD, Alliance 90/The Greens, and BSW have all expressed openness to a ban. After the European Parliament called on member states to prohibit social media for under-13s in November 2025, Family Minister Karin Prien set up an expert commission, which is expected to present recommendations by summer 2026.

Critics’ perspectives

The German Children’s Fund (Deutsches Kinderhilfswerk) is among the critics. Managing Director Kai Hanke argues that “blanket media bans may make it harder to access risky online spaces, but competence and safety in digital environments can only be learned through active use.” He warns that a general ban would also reduce young people’s participation in key societal debates about politics, culture, and education.

Germany’s National Student Conference takes a similar view, advocating for better education in digital skills rather than bans. The Workers’ Welfare Association (AWO) agrees, saying a ban for under-16s is too simplistic and does not offer genuine protection.

Interestingly, a survey of young internet users found that they are well aware of the risks: problematic algorithms, addictive features, sexualised content, hate speech, and violence. Critics argue that a blanket ban ignores the realities of young people’s lives.

Arguments for and against age restrictions

Supporters of age restrictions highlight the risks posed by social media algorithms, which can promote harmful content including cyberbullying, fake news, extremist material, violence, and sexualised images. Polls often show broad support for age limits among the public.

However, critics point out that banning social media won’t make these problems disappear – they exist offline too. Enforcing a ban is also a technical challenge, with fake ages and borrowed accounts easy ways to bypass restrictions. Moreover, a ban would also remove the positive aspects of social media: staying in touch with friends, finding information, developing one’s identity, and entertainment.

Conclusion: Is regulation a better solution?

There is no doubt that social media can have negative effects on young people. Holding tech companies to account is entirely justified, as their algorithms can exacerbate risks. Yet, instead of a blanket ban, regulating algorithms and the content they promote – alongside strengthening young people’s digital literacy – may be a more effective and balanced solution. After all, what happens when a young person turns 16 and suddenly gains unrestricted access?

Text: Falk Hedemann