Austria’s federal government has announced plans to prohibit social media use for students aged 14 and under, as part of a broader reform of the country’s education system. The measures, scheduled to take effect from the 2027/28 school year, aim to strengthen media literacy, civic understanding, and awareness of artificial intelligence (AI) among young people. According to reporting on the policy announcement, the reforms will combine restrictions on social media with expanded digital and civic education in schools.
Education Reform Focuses On Digital Literacy
The proposed ban targets social media use by students aged 14 and younger. At the same time, the government intends to increase instruction related to digital technologies and civic participation, recognising the growing influence of online platforms on young people’s information consumption.
Under the reform framework, Austria’s Education Ministry and education sector partners have agreed that schools will have flexibility in how they teach media literacy. Institutions may offer it as a standalone subject or integrate it into a broader combined curriculum.
New Curriculum Areas: Media, Democracy And AI
A new compulsory subject titled Media and Democracy will be introduced as part of the changes. The course is expected to explore the role and value of both traditional and social media in democratic societies.
Students will also be taught how to assess information critically. This includes learning how to distinguish between accurate and false information, as well as identifying anti-democratic messaging and potential radicalising influences online.
Alongside these subjects, computer science instruction will be expanded to include greater focus on artificial intelligence. The aim is to help students understand how digital systems operate while also recognising the opportunities and risks associated with AI technologies.
Data Disclosure And Platform Cooperation
The government has indicated that a real-name policy for social media users will not be introduced. Instead, authorities plan to enforce existing requirements for social media platforms to disclose user data in cases involving serious offences.
Officials also intend to strengthen cooperation between digital platforms and law enforcement agencies to support the investigation and prosecution of offenders. These measures are designed to complement the education reforms by addressing online harms through both regulatory oversight and improved digital awareness among students.
