Hendrik Streeck, the German federal drug‑policy commissioner and a member of the Bundestag for the CDU, expressed doubts that a blanket ban on social media would succeed. Speaking to the magazine “Focus”, he said, “We need an evidence‑based overall package: improved media literacy, enforceable age limits, clear accountability for platforms, and safeguards against addictive design features”. He emphasized that “a generic social‑media ban alone will not solve the problem”.
Streeck warned of the negative effects of online networks, citing studies that show one in four children develops problematic or risky media‑use habits. He argued that these issues arise not only from individual choices but also from the structure of the platforms themselves.
Regarding the SPD’s proposal to prohibit social‑media use for people under 14, he added that he supports any bipartisan initiative that strengthens digital child and adolescent protection-“including the ongoing debate”.