With Australia's social media ban for teenagers coming into effect this month, German Digital Minister Karsten Wildberger signaled he was opened to a similar move in the EU country.

"I can see a lot of merit in that," he told the German dpa news agency in remarks published on Friday.

"I consider the question of an age restriction to be more than justified,” he added.

Australia goes against digital heavyweights

Since December 10., the Australian government has required social media platforms to remove profiles of users under 16 and prevent teens from creating new ones.

While the move was controversial, Australian officials say it was motivated by concerns such as cyberbullying, grooming and content that might be harmful to mental health.

The ban applies to multiple digital platforms and global corporate giants such as TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube, Reddit, Instagram, Facebook, Kick, Twitch, Threads and X.

EU Commission chief 'inspired' by social media restriction

Social media companies and civil liberties activists have criticized the law. At the same time, the decision prompted praise in other countries, where governments are closely monitoring Canberra's efforts to implement and enforce its new policy; including its age verification systems.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she was "inspired" by the Australian ban.

Australia remains the first and only country in the world to impose such a restriction.

Germany waits for commission recommendation

Wildberger pointed to an expert commission appointed by the German government to address child and youth protection in the digital age.

"So now the question is: How do we enable them to have a healthy development, like earlier generations had without social media?" he said.

The panel, which includes academics, medical professionals and youth protection advocates, is expected to publish policy recommendations by summer 2026.

Those proposals are likely to cover social media use and may include comments on banning cellphones in schools, similar to measures already partly implemented in France.

Edited by: Louis Oelofse