Federal Family Minister Karin Prien (CDU) wants to abolish "supervised drinking" for adolescents aged 14 and above. As a spokesperson for her ministry confirmed on Sunday, this is outlined in a draft ministerial bill to amend the Youth Protection Act. This would eliminate an exceptional regulation that allows the purchase and consumption of beer, wine, and sparkling wine when accompanied by a person with parental authority, even at ages 14 or 15.
The news portal Politico first reported on the draft bill. According to the report, the plans follow "the approach of taking the increasing problem of addiction seriously," as stated in the draft. The ministry notes that the consequences can range "from health risks to increased propensity for violence and neglect." According to the ministry spokesperson, the draft bill is currently undergoing consultation with the federal states and associations.
The current Youth Protection Act contains a provision that permits 14- and 15-year-olds to consume beer, wine, and sparkling wine when accompanied by their parents or legal guardians. This exception has been part of German law for decades, reflecting a cultural approach to introducing young people to alcohol in controlled family settings.
The proposed amendment addresses growing concerns about youth alcohol consumption and its impact on development. Medical research has increasingly shown that alcohol consumption during adolescence can affect brain development and increase the risk of future addiction. The ministry's draft emphasizes that early alcohol exposure can lead to serious health complications beyond immediate intoxication.
In September, the Bundesrat called on the federal government to abolish "supervised drinking." The Federal Council supported with a clear majority a corresponding initiative from Bavaria, which particularly referred to addiction prevention and possible developmental disorders during puberty.
The Bavaria-led initiative highlighted growing evidence that even supervised alcohol consumption at young ages can establish patterns that lead to problematic drinking behaviors later in life. Public health experts have long debated whether the current exception sends mixed messages about alcohol safety to young people.
The draft bill is currently in the consultation phase with federal states and various associations. If approved, the change would represent a significant shift in Germany's approach to youth alcohol protection, bringing stricter age limits in line with many other European countries. Once the consultation period concludes, the bill will need to pass through the Bundestag and receive final approval before becoming law. The timeline for implementation has not yet been announced.
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