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Government is planning strict age limits for TikKOK and Instagram!
Austria plans strict age limits for social media to protect children. The reason is the killing spree in Graz.
Government is planning strict age limits for TikKOK and Instagram!
The Austrian federal government plans to tighten age limits for access to social media, a project that has gained urgency after the tragic school attack in Graz. State Secretary Alexander Pröll (ÖVP) announced that the first steps to implement these age restrictions could be decided on Wednesday. The aim of this initiative is to better protect minors and make social media safer.
In his explanation, Pröll emphasized the need to oblige platforms to comply with the new age limits. "We have to examine opportunities together with stakeholders," he continued, and spoke out for a binding regulation of social networks. The minister referred to the General Data Protection Regulation, which prohibits the processing of children under the age of 14, and saw this another reason for stricter controls.Scientific advisory board and support from the Greens
The WU business informatist Sarah Spiekermann supported these initiatives and advocated an EU-wide age limit of 15 years and a strict registration for digital platforms. Pröll thinks the idea of linking social media accounts with the ID Austria, in principle sensible and would like to take a closer look at this option. "We should introduce security measures that serve to protect our children," he appealed.
The project is also supported by the Greens. Barbara Neßler from the Greens said positively about the demands for clear age limits. "We have age limits for alcohol, gambling and films in the real world. Why not for social media?", She asked rhetorically and criticized the previous shortcomings of retirement controls.
criticism of existing regulations
Despite the exemplary step, questions remain unanswered. Critics notice that there is a lack of existing age controls and rules on social media that can endanger children and young people. The debate about access to social media is not new, and many voices arise with the demand for a balanced approach. The remarkable discussion shows that young people have the right to digital participation, but also need protection.
The developments related to this matter are traced with tension. The Council of Ministers will have conversations about specific measures in the coming days. The results of these consultations will also be expected soon to define the specific direction in politics.