Most in Germany want Australia-style social media ban: poll – DW – 11/30/2024
www.dw.com
A survey has shown that a majority in Germany would support banning social media use for those under 16. This week, Australian lawmakers approved legislation to that effect.

Summary

A YouGov poll revealed that 77% of Germans support banning social media for those under 16, similar to a new Australian law.

The survey found that 82% believe social media harms young people, citing harmful content and addiction.

In Australia, the law fines platforms up to AUD 49.5 million (€30.5M) for allowing under-16s to create accounts, with enforcement trials set before implementation next year. Critics

    • cley_faye@lemmy.worldEnglish
      10·
      1 day ago

      Some vulnerable people (yes, that include kids) are manipulated and cut from external contacts, and sometimes online services are their only way to communicate. A lot of such services could fall under the “social media” category indiscriminately, making it harder to use, and cutting their only source of communications.

      Think like countries banning TOR and the like to root out journalist, but on a smaller scale.

      • LaserEnglish
        81·
        1 day ago

        It’s good that you feel empathic with the vulnerable, and I truly mean that, but I fail to recognize the connection to the actual news

        • hungryphrog@lemmy.blahaj.zoneEnglish
          1·
          2 hours ago

          See, for kids who have little to no supportive or safe people, especially adults, in their lives, the internet is a very, very important lifeline that allows them to connect with someone who can help them or at least make them feel better.