The article reports on a high-profile lawsuit in the United States where Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta, is facing allegations that his company, alongside Google, designed their social media platforms to intentionally addict children and adolescents, leading to various psychological issues. This legal challenge is significant as it raises critical questions about the ethical responsibilities of tech companies regarding youth engagement and safety.

With an increasing number of countries contemplating or enacting bans and restrictions on social media use among minors, the statements made by Zuckerberg regarding the addictive nature of platforms like Instagram and YouTube are particularly timely. The lawsuit sheds light on a growing public concern regarding the mental health implications of social media exposure on young users, framing it as part of a broader societal Debate on regulating digital spaces to protect vulnerable populations.

Moreover, a recent analysis highlighting the parallels between social media use and drug consumption emphasizes the urgency of addressing these issues at both the legal and societal levels. The Academy of Sciences Leopoldina in Germany has reported that a significant number of young people display addictive behaviors associated with social media, suggesting that this phenomenon is not only prevalent but also demands immediate action from lawmakers and public health officials.