BERLIN: Germany’s co-governing Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD) has proposed a sweeping crackdown on children’s access to social media, including a complete ban for those under 14.
Germany’s business newspaper Handelsblatt reported that the centre-left party wants mandatory age verification using the EU’s planned digital identity system, known as the EUDI Wallet (EU Digital Identity Wallet).
Under the SPD policy paper, the proposal would introduce a three-tier system:
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Under 14: A full ban on social media platforms, with companies required to implement technical access blocks. Violations could result in immediate orders, heavy fines, temporary restrictions, or even network blocks as a last resort.
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Under 16: Access would be limited to a “youth version” of platforms. Features considered addictive — such as endless scrolling, autoplay videos, and reward-based engagement systems — would be removed. Algorithm-driven feeds and personalised content would also be prohibited.
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16 and over: Algorithmic recommendation systems would be deactivated by default for all users, including adults. Users would have to opt in to receive algorithm-based content suggestions actively. Identity verification via the EUDI Wallet would also be required.
The policy states that children under 16 would only be able to access platforms such as Instagram through their parents’ or guardians’ EUDI Wallet, which stores official identification documents like ID cards and driving licences.
Rethinking internet freedom
SPD leader and Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil said he is reconsidering earlier positions that prioritised unrestricted internet freedom.
“A few years ago, we all emphasised the freedom of the internet and said there should be no restrictions whatsoever. But now we see in the debates that something is happening in society,” Klingbeil told German Press Agency (dpa).
He said many young people are now calling for clearer rules on social media use.
“We need restrictions when it comes to how we deal with social media and the internet, and we need to make decisions about that now,” he added.
