CDU, the party of German Chancellor Merz, considers banning access for children under 16 to social networks.

The conservatives in Germany, led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz, are considering a proposal to ban access for children under 16 to social networks, inspired by Australia, which has implemented such a measure.

Dennis Radtke, leader of the CDU's social wing, argues that social networks are full of hate and misinformation, thus justifying the need for an age limit. In contrast, coalition partners from the SPD, represented by Johannes Schatzl, oppose a total ban, preferring effective regulatory measures from the platforms.

CDU has submitted a motion that will be discussed at the national conference in February, proposing a minimum age of 16 for the use of social platforms, including TikTok and Instagram. Discussions about the negative effects of social networks on young people are increasing in Germany, and a special commission has been established to analyze the protection of young people in the online environment.