Feb 27 • 17:00 UTC 🇪🇪 Estonia ERR

Poland wants to ban social media for under 15s

The Polish government plans to ban social media use for those under the age of 15 to support youth mental health and increase awareness of the dangers of social media.

The Polish government is set to implement a ban on social media usage for individuals under the age of 15. This initiative was presented by the Minister of Education, who highlighted the necessity of protecting the mental health of youth and strengthening the awareness of the risks posed by social media to both children and parents. Legislation aimed at regulating social media use among the young generation reflects growing concerns about their well-being in a digital world that often prioritizes profit over safety.

Monika Rosa, the head of the Children's and Youth Committee in the Polish Parliament, emphasized that the proposed law is not only a prohibition but also an assertion of responsibility. She stated that the onus is on adults and, importantly, large digital platforms that profit significantly from the engagement of young users. Rosa's comments suggest a broader accountability framework that would compel these platforms to address the implications of their services on youth. The move aligns with similar legislation being considered or enacted in other countries, such as Australia, Germany, Norway, Denmark, France, and Spain, indicating a global trend towards stricter regulations on social media use by minors.

In contrast, Estonia has decided against implementing such a ban, placing the responsibility on parents to regulate their children's social media usage. This divergence in approach highlights the ongoing debate regarding the role of government versus parental guidance in managing the impact of social media on the younger population, raising questions about the best strategies to ensure the safety and mental health of children in an increasingly digital environment.

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