Steinmeier Warns of Social Media's Mental Health Impact on Youth
Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier will deliver a speech on Tuesday at the presentation of the German School Prize in Berlin-Adlershof. He will address the growing concern of social media's impact on mental health, particularly among young people. The World Health Organization reports that more than one in ten European youth exhibit problematic social media behaviour. Steinmeier will also discuss the lack of accountability in the digital space and the influence of popular platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, and X on families.
Steinmeier will warn about the dangers of social media, highlighting the massive mental and health damage it causes, especially among young people. He will call for a debate about the responsibility of platform operators, pointing out the lack of clear accountability for hate speech, incitement, and the spread of misinformation. Steinmeier welcomes a smartphone ban in elementary schools but acknowledges it's not enough to protect older students from bullying and polarization. He believes young people can only learn to assert themselves in democracy through practical experience in real discussions and social networks.
Steinmeier's speech will emphasize the urgent need for a serious debate on the responsibilities of social media platforms and the protection of young people's mental health. He will call for a balance between the benefits and harms of these platforms, ensuring they do not hinder young people's development in a democratic society.
