The key facts

  • The German cabinet approved the foundations of the reform: a social media ban under 13 and phased restrictions for teenagers aged 13–18 (details not yet defined).
  • Platforms will be required to consider child safety from early stages: recommendation algorithms disabled by default, combating addictive features (infinite feed, autoplay).
  • The 'KI-Seepferdchen' program will teach primary school students mindful use of AI; 79% of Germans consider it useful (Bitkom survey).

Online Child Protection Reform

The German government intends to strengthen measures to protect children online. Among the proposals are a ban on the use of social media for children under 13, the introduction of restrictions for teenagers, and the development of a special educational program on artificial intelligence for primary school students. The cabinet of ministers approved the key provisions of the reform, but the final laws have not yet been passed.

Restrictions for Teenagers and the Role of the EU

Germany plans to establish its own restrictions before the introduction of unified rules at the European Union level. An exception may be made for special children's platforms. For teenagers aged 13 to 18, phased restrictions are envisaged, but they have not yet been precisely defined.

Platform Obligations

The government also intends to require platforms to consider child safety from the very beginning of development. It is proposed to disable algorithm-based recommendations by default and to combat addictive features — these include infinite feed scrolling and automatic video playback.

The 'KI-Seepferdchen' Program

Another initiative is the 'KI-Seepferdchen' ('AI Seahorse') program, under which primary school students will be taught to become familiar with artificial intelligence applications, understand their capabilities and risks, and use them mindfully. According to a Bitkom survey, 79% of Germany's population consider the idea of this program useful.

Timing Unknown

When the restrictions may come into force is still unknown.