Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš is advocating for a ban on social media usage for children under 15 years old, citing health concerns and following France’s example.
Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš has announced his support for prohibiting social media usage among children younger than 15 years, aligning with recent legislative measures taken in France. His statement came during a video posted on social media, where he highlighted the detrimental effects that experts attribute to social networks on children's well-being. Babiš emphasized the necessity of protecting children from what he termed as harmful influences of these platforms, suggesting that many governments are contemplating similar regulations.
Babiš's political party, ANO, notably relies on social media for citizens' communication, with the Prime Minister frequently sharing videos to engage the public. This puts a unique spin on his proposed ban, considering his personal use of social networks to disseminate information and connect with voters. On a national television program, he reiterated his stance on the matter, asserting that the health and safety of children should come first.
The government's intention to consider this ban has garnered various reactions, including from Deputy Prime Minister Karel Havlíček, who revealed that discussions with professionals and social media operators are underway to explore the implications of such a ban. The proposal represents an ongoing debate in multiple countries regarding the impact of social media on youth, as legislative bodies strive to find a balance between digital freedom and child protection.
