From Villa Schöpflin’s perspective, the question of whether to ban social media for children and adolescents cannot be answered unequivocally with a simple yes or no. 
At present, children and adolescents are at the mercy of the dangers associated with social media platforms (violence, hate, etc.). Preventive programs and the promotion of media literacy have not yet been able to address these challenges on a widespread basis. Parents and caregivers are also reaching their limits when it comes to media education.
In the spirit of inclusion, the primary goal should not be to exclude children and adolescents, but rather to require platform operators—as outlined in the Digital Services Act (DSA)—to design their services in a way that protects children and adolescents. 
Currently, there is a risk that a social media ban will serve merely as a stopgap measure. 
From a prevention perspective, the sustainable goal is to empower all people—especially children and adolescents—to engage in self-determined and responsible media use within an appropriately regulated media landscape.
In addition, parents and caregivers must be supported in media education, as must institutions involved in media literacy, because age-appropriate rules and restrictions, embedded in conversations and relationships, offer protection and guidance.

March 2026