Social Media Ban for Under-16s: Poll Shows Strong Public Support

A recent Opinia24 survey for RMF FM reveals that a significant majority of Poles support banning social media access for children under 16, mirroring similar legislative efforts across Europe and Australia.

Public Support for Age Restrictions

Discussion regarding child safety online is intensifying. According to the “Puls Opinii” study conducted between July 6-8, 2026, 65 percent of respondents favor a ban on social media for those under 16. Within this group, 33 percent answered “definitely yes,” while 32 percent opted for “rather yes.”

Conversely, 22 percent of those surveyed oppose the measure, with 13 percent remaining undecided. Support is notably higher among women, individuals over 60, those with higher education, and voters of the Civic Coalition.

Demographic Divide on Social Media Usage

Opposition to the proposed ban is most prominent among men, with 28 percent expressing disagreement. Resistance is strongest in the 18-24 age group, where 49 percent oppose the restriction, as well as among individuals with primary education at 31 percent. Among the 25-59 demographic, 40 percent of respondents remain against such a policy.

Global Legislative Trends

International moves toward digital restrictions are accelerating. Greece aims to ban social media for those under 15 by 2027, and the UK is planning to restrict access for those under 16 next year. France has already passed a legislative provision to prohibit social media usage for those under 15, while Australia implemented a ban for those under 16 last December.

Domestic Policy Outlook

Poland is currently deliberating its own regulatory approach. Minister of National Education Barbara Nowacka stated that while changes are being considered, they should not be implemented hastily, suggesting next year as the most realistic timeframe for potential enforcement. The primary motivation remains the protection of minors from online risks.