Berlin, Germany – Germany’s leading⁢ center-right political ⁢bloc, comprised of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and Christian Social Union (CSU), is actively considering legislation that would prohibit individuals under the age of 16 from using popular social media platforms ‍Instagram and TikTok. The proposal,currently under discussion,aims to strengthen youth protection measures in the digital sphere.

CDU/CSU faction leader ⁤Jens Spahn revealed the deliberations in a​ recent interview with the Neue Osnabrücker Zeitung (NOZ).”What we discuss​ intensely in ⁣the Union is​ the question of ​additional rules⁤ for youth protection. One option would be an age ‍limit for ​social media at 16 years,”‌ Spahn stated.

The potential ban stems​ from growing concerns about the impact‍ of social media on adolescent brain advancement.‍ Spahn highlighted research suggesting a concerning parallel between social media engagement and addictive substances. “Brain researchers say that Instagram ​and TikTok also address the reward system in the brain about ‍the‍ same way as heroin,” he explained, underscoring the severity of‍ the issue as perceived by party members.

Spahn‍ acknowledged the challenges of enforcement, drawing⁤ a comparison to existing restrictions on alcohol and nicotine. “Bans ‌are a sharp⁢ sword. ⁤But we also ‍forbid⁣ young people to protect ⁤alcohol and nicotine to protect the growing brain,” he said. While no final decision has been reached – “we still ⁢weigh,” Spahn⁤ confirmed – ​the possibility of stricter regulations ‌remains on the table. ‌ He ⁣added, “if TikTok looks⁤ like an even harder drug, we have ​to do something.”