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Switzerland needs to step up efforts to protect children from the dangers of social media, said Interior Minister Elisabeth Baume-Schneider on Sunday, indicating openness to exploring a possible ban on platforms for minors.
Following Australia’s recent prohibition of social media for users under 16, Baume-Schneider told SonntagsBlick that Switzerland should consider similar restrictions.
“The discussions in Australia and the European Union are significant. It’s important they happen here as well. I am in favor of banning social media for children,” the minister, a member of the center-left Social Democratic Party, stated. “We must do a better job of safeguarding our youth.”
She emphasized the need for authorities to evaluate what should be limited, suggesting measures such as banning social media for children, restricting harmful content, and addressing algorithms that exploit young people’s vulnerabilities.
Detailed policy discussions are set to commence in the new year, supported by an upcoming report on the matter, Baume-Schneider added. “We must also hold social media companies accountable—they need to take responsibility for what children and teens are exposed to.”
Australia’s social media ban has received praise from many parents and child welfare advocates, while drawing criticism from major tech firms and free speech defenders.
Earlier this month, the Swiss canton of Fribourg’s parliament approved a ban on mobile phones in schools until students turn about 15 years old—another example of localized efforts to limit screen time in Swiss educational settings.
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