A significant majority of people in Germany are calling on politicians to take greater measures to protect young consumers, according to the Consumer Agency Federal Association’s (VZBV) Consumer Report 2026, which was reported by the “Rheinische Post.”
The data indicates that these concerns primarily span online services, financial stability, and nutrition. A survey found that 79 percent of respondents believe that politicians should offer stronger protection for children and adolescents, even if this necessitates stricter regulations for companies and platforms.
The results, gathered by the polling institute Forsa through a telephone survey of nearly 1,500 people aged 14 and older last April, are clear: 87 percent of people rate the political protection of children and adolescents when using social services like social media or online games as very poor or poor. Protection against excessive debt in the finance sector is not in a better position; approximately 82 percent of those surveyed find the current political protection for young consumers to be equally insufficient. Furthermore, nearly three-quarters (74 percent) wish to see more protective measures implemented by the state concerning the diet of children and adolescents.
Ramona Pop, Chairman of the VZBV, told the “Rheinische Post”: “Unhealthy food, addictive online media, looming debt traps-the consumer life of young people is extremely complex.” She added that children and adolescents have a fundamental right to grow up healthy and safe. “In our view, and in the view of most consumers, politics often fails to uphold this responsibility.” Pop demanded action from the federal government, emphasizing that young people should not be left out. She stressed their right to participate in society, both analog and digitally.
Pop stated that politics must ensure that digital offerings are safe for young people and that swift solutions are needed to significantly improve their protection. Concerning financial issues, she highlighted the necessity of minimizing the risks of over-indebtedness and fraud, especially for the very young. Finally, Pop contended that the government must also establish the necessary frameworks to enable a healthy diet.
