More protection of minors: Cabinet decides on key points for social media restrictions

Social media restrictions are already planned in the EU. But until that happens, Germany should have its own rules. The cabinet has now decided on a key points paper for this purpose.

Among other things, the paper envisages setting an age limit of 13 years for platforms such as TikTok, Snapchat and Instagram at the national level. Only offers that can be proven to be child-friendly should be excluded. Graded restrictions are planned for young people between 13 and 18 years old.

Similar to the EU plans, young people from the age of 13 should also be allowed to use “mini accounts” that are set up and supervised by their parents. These should only have limited functions and their use should be limited to one hour per day.

“AI seahorses” for primary school children

A Germany-wide uniform training program on artificial intelligence (AI) is also to be created for primary school children. The “AI Seahorse” should enable children to “handle AI, recognize applications and be able to assess them in a reflective manner”.

A nationwide “information and awareness campaign” is also intended to highlight the dangers of digital media and disseminate offers of support. The ministry explained that parents of preschool children would be addressed first. The campaign should start before the end of the year.

It could take some time to implement

It's about ensuring that young people "can grow up safely and self-determined, even in the digital world," explained Family Minister Karin Prien (CDU).

The EU Commission had already presented corresponding plans in September with the “EU Kids Act”. However, a lot of time could pass before the EU Parliament and member states have agreed on uniform lines for the project and a minimum age is actually introduced.

In total, the key issues paper includes twelve individual projects. The key points approved by the cabinet are not yet a concrete legislative proposal, but rather a declaration of intent. It is therefore unclear when exactly the restrictions will come into force.