Germany Plans Tighter Social Media Rules for Minors by June

Federal Family Minister Karin Prien has reaffirmed plans for stricter social media rules affecting children and teenagers. The government is now waiting for expert recommendations due in June before taking further steps. Prien stressed that the issue remains a key priority. Prien, a member of the CDU, has made clear that any new measures must balance protection, empowerment, and participation. She acknowledged that Federal Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt (CSU) had previously opposed an outright ban on social media for young users. Instead, Dobrindt called for stronger parental oversight and better media literacy—views that Prien supports.

Once the expert commission submits its report next month, the government will draft a package of proposals. This will include potential legislation aimed at tightening controls on how minors engage with social platforms. The next steps depend on the commission’s findings, expected in June. If approved, the new rules would mark a shift in how Germany regulates young people’s access to social media. The focus will likely remain on parental involvement and education rather than outright restrictions.