Following Australia's landmark ban on social media for under-16s, a new German survey shows strong public backing for similar measures, with 60% in favor.
In the wake of Australia's social media ban for minors under 16—detailed in our previous coverage—a representative survey in Germany reveals widespread support for analogous restrictions.
The Insa Institute poll, commissioned by 'Bild am Sonntag' and involving 1,003 participants on December 11-12, found 60% support for prohibiting social media accounts for children under 16. Only 24% opposed, with 10% indifferent and 6% undecided.
This sentiment underscores growing European concerns over social media's effects on youth mental health and exposure to harms, echoing debates around Australia's law. While Germany has no such legislation yet, the poll could spur policy discussions. Experts highlight potential benefits for child protection against issues like anxiety, cyberbullying, and harmful content, though critics question enforcement and free speech implications.
