Most Poles back social media ban for children under 16, survey finds

By Beyza Binnur Donmez

GENEVA (AA) - Most Poles would support banning social media use for children under 16, according to a new survey, as Poland weighs measures similar to those adopted or discussed in other European countries.

Citing a poll conducted by SW Research for the newspaper Rzeczpospolita, TVP World reported Saturday that the poll found 64.3% of respondents favor such a ban. Meanwhile, 21.9% said they opposed the idea and 13.8% had no opinion.

Support increased with age, rising from 57.7% among people aged 25-34 to 62.3% for those aged 35-49 and 69.9% among respondents over 50.

Even among the youngest group surveyed, aged 18-24, a majority of 53.9% said they would support restrictions.

Backing was strongest among respondents earning less than 3,000 zloty (around $840) per month at 71.9%, and among residents of mid-sized cities. Support reached 72.2% in cities with 100,000-199,000 people and 78% in cities with 200,000-499,000 residents.

The lowest support was recorded among those with only primary or middle school education, at 50.6%, and residents of the largest cities, at 55.4%.

The survey was conducted on Feb. 3-4 among 800 internet users over the age of 18 using a random-quota sample adjusted to reflect Poland’s demographics.

Poland’s debate follows similar moves abroad. After Australia introduced a ban on social media use by children under 16 last year, countries including France and Spain have also announced plans to tighten restrictions.

In Poland, lawmakers from the centrist Civil Coalition are preparing a bill to limit social media access for children under 15.

“We want to protect children from algorithms and addiction, which is dangerous for their mental health and undermines educational outcomes,” said Roman Giertych, a former education minister.