Calls for a legal ban on social media use – including Instagram and TikTok – for children and adolescents under the age of 16 are gaining momentum in Germany. Chancellor Friedrich Merz voiced his support for the measure this week, even as the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) in Schleswig-Holstein formally proposed a corresponding ban at the party’s national convention this weekend.
The impetus for the proposed legislation stems from concerns that children are becoming overly immersed in the world of social media and are vulnerable to indoctrination and manipulation. Merz, speaking on the “Machtwechsel” political podcast, expressed concern over excessive screen time, stating, “If children at the age of 14 are spending five hours or more a day on screens, if their entire socialization is taking place through this medium, then we shouldn’t be surprised about personality deficits and problems in the social behavior of young people.”
A concrete proposal from the CDU Schleswig-Holstein, to be debated at the Stuttgart party congress, calls for a minimum age of 16 for social media use, coupled with mandatory age verification. The Social Democratic Party (SPD) has also presented a concept with tiered age restrictions, suggesting a complete ban for children under 14. According to reports, the Chancellor has expressed “much sympathy” for both proposals.
However, critics argue that a social media ban alone is insufficient to address the broader dangers present online. A representative nationwide survey of 3,000 German youths conducted in December 2025 revealed that nearly half (47 percent) have consumed pornography, a significant increase from 35 percent just two years prior. This exposure is considered to have a severely negative impact on their sexual development.
The argument is being made that controlling internet access is crucial, but a ban on social media, even if technically feasible, would not be enough. The responsibility for protecting children and adolescents from online hazards ultimately rests with parents, teachers, and educators, who are often overwhelmed and unable to enforce necessary rules. Many parents are unavailable while their children are using smartphones, and educators in after-school care facilities are overburdened.
Proponents of a more comprehensive approach suggest that relying on a new state ban to solve the problem is misguided. Instagram’s terms of service already require users to be at least 13 years old, with stricter regulations for those aged 16 and under, yet these rules are not effectively enforced.
The focus, according to these critics, must shift to adults taking responsibility. Without that commitment, the future of Germany’s youth is at risk.
Friedrich Merz, as Chairman of the CDU, maintains a visible presence on social media platforms, including TikTok and Instagram, where he shares updates on his role as Chancellor and party leader. His TikTok account (@merzcdu) has garnered 1.6 million likes and 189.2K followers, while his Instagram account (@merzcdu) has 344K followers.
