German minister sees ' a lot of merit' to social media ban for teens
EL.KZ Информационно-познавательный портал
With Australia's social media ban for teenagers coming into effect this month, German Digital Minister Karsten Wildberger signaled he was opened to a similar move in the EU country,El.kz cites DW.
"I can see a lot of merit in that," he told.
"I consider the question of an age restriction to be more than justified,” he added.
EU Commission chief 'inspired' by social media restriction
Social media companies and civil liberties activists have criticized the law. At the same time, the decision prompted praise in other countries, where governments are closely monitoring Canberra's efforts to implement and enforce its new policy; including its age verification systems.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she was "inspired" by the Australian ban.
Australia remains the first and only country in the world to impose such a restriction.
Germany waits for commission recommendation
Wildberger pointed to an expert commission appointed by the German government to address child and youth protection in the digital age.
"So now the question is: How do we enable them to have a healthy development, like earlier generations had without social media?" he said.
The panel, which includes academics, medical professionals and youth protection advocates, is expected to publish policy recommendations by summer 2025.
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