Speaking on the debate concerning the regulation of social media for minors, CSU digital politician Hansjörg Durz cautioned against implementing sweeping outright bans. Speaking to the news magazine “Focus” the Chairman of the Digital Committee stressed that such hasty measures would be counterproductive.
Durz further pointed out that the discussion should not overlook the opportunities presented by social networks in addition to the recognized risks. According to him, learning how to navigate social media in a digital world is achieved only through enabling participation. He emphasized that this participation is core to media freedom, a right that applies not only to adults but also to youth.
Consequently, he argued that political focus must first be placed on enforcing and strengthening existing rules. He noted that European legislation, such as the Digital Services Act, already obligates platforms to take “appropriate and proportionate measures” to ensure a high degree of privacy, safety, and child protection.
Therefore, Durz recommends that the federal government await the results of the independent expert commission on “Child and Youth Protection in the Digital World” before considering any possible ban. While he conceded that a differentiated ban could constitute “part of a solution” he warned that ignoring the inherent complexity of digital environments traps policymakers in the very kind of contradictory discussion logic they are criticizing regarding social media use.
