Polish lawmakers are considering implementing age restrictions on social media use among teenagers to protect them from negative influences and dependencies.
In mid-January, it was revealed that Poland's Minister of National Education, Barbara Nowacka, along with fellow Civic Coalition member Roman Giertych, is working on a legislative proposal to limit social media access for children under 15. The initiative aims to address the perceived risks associated with algorithm-driven content and the psychological addiction that social media can foster in young people. Giertych has expressed the intention of garnering support from all parliamentary clubs to push this initiative forward.
The motivations behind this proposed legislation are rooted in concerns over children's mental health and educational outcomes, with proponents arguing that social media can adversely affect both. The Civic Coalition’s efforts are aligned with global trends, as several other countries are also contemplating regulations to mitigate the impacts of digital environments on minors. Australia is mentioned as a precedent, indicating that international examples are shaping Polish policy discussions.
Despite the intentions behind such regulations, the proposal raises significant debates regarding freedom of expression, parental authority, and the role of government in regulating the digital lives of children. As the discussions evolve, the public sentiment regarding these restrictions and their potential effectiveness in safeguarding youth will likely play a crucial role in the legislative process, making it a significant topic of national relevance in Poland.
