The overwhelming majority of Switzerland’s residents support stricter measures to protect minors from the harmful effects of social media. This is according to the results of a recent survey published on Sunday.
The study, conducted by the reputable polling firm GfS Bern on behalf of the Mercator Foundation, found that 94% of respondents believe children and teenagers need better protection from the negative consequences of social media. In addition, 78% of those surveyed feel that major technology companies have excessive influence over public opinion.
The poll was conducted in December 2025 among approximately 1,000 Swiss residents aged 16 and older. The results reflect growing public concern about the impact of platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and others on the mental health, attention spans, and development of young people.
“Social media is addictive,” many participants in the study noted. Many Swiss people believe that platform algorithms deliberately hook children on endless scrolling, leading to sleep problems, anxiety, and declining academic performance.
This topic is being actively debated not only in Switzerland. In recent years, a number of countries — including Australia and several EU member states — have introduced or are considering age restrictions and bans on social media use for minors. In Switzerland itself, proposals to ban social media for children under the age of 16 have previously been raised, with around 80% of the population supporting them at the time.
Experts note that the survey results could push federal authorities to tighten legislation on the protection of minors online. Switzerland’s Interior Minister has previously spoken out in favor of stricter measures, including a possible ban.