Prague – The Czech government is considering a ban on social media access for children under the age of 15, a move mirroring similar debates unfolding across Europe and raising questions about online child protection versus digital freedoms. Prime Minister Andrej Babiš publicly voiced his support for the measure on Sunday, , citing concerns about the harmful effects of social media on young people.
The proposal, which is still in the consultation phase with experts and telecommunications operators, aims to address growing anxieties over the impact of platforms like Facebook, Instagram and TikTok on children’s mental health and well-being. According to data presented by officials, nearly 80 percent of Czech children aged 11 already have social media profiles, spending an average of four to five hours daily on these platforms, with 8 percent exhibiting symptoms of problematic usage.
“I’m in favor of a ban, because the experts I know all say it is extremely harmful,” Babiš stated in a public address on Facebook. “We must do something to protect our children.” Deputy Prime Minister Karel Havlíček echoed this sentiment, describing social networks as “destroying children’s lives” and characterizing the issue as a “plague” requiring immediate action. He indicated the government hopes to propose legislation this year.
The move follows France’s implementation of similar restrictions, prompting the Czech government to explore comparable measures. However, the proposal is not without its critics. Opposition politicians and some within the ruling coalition have expressed reservations about the feasibility and potential consequences of an outright ban.
Experts are divided on the effectiveness of such a measure. While acknowledging the potential harms of social media, some argue that a ban could be counterproductive, driving children to use platforms covertly and hindering their development of critical digital literacy skills. Concerns have also been raised about the practical challenges of enforcing a ban and the potential for circumvention through VPNs or other technologies.
“There’s no time to waste,” Havlíček said in a debate on CNN Prima News, underscoring the government’s sense of urgency. However, critics point to the need for a more nuanced approach, focusing on education, parental controls, and collaboration with social media companies to create safer online environments.
The debate in the Czech Republic reflects a broader European trend of increasing scrutiny over the impact of social media on children. Policymakers are grappling with how to balance the need to protect young people from online harms – including cyberbullying, exposure to inappropriate content, and the potential for addiction – with the importance of fostering digital citizenship and ensuring access to information.
The Better Internet for Kids (BIK) Policy Monitor report highlights that children’s online protection, digital empowerment, and digital participation are emerging policy priorities in the Czech Republic, partially covered in existing national and regional laws. The report also notes the influence of the BIK+ strategy on policy development, even if not directly referenced.
According to the State of the Digital Decade 2024 report, boasts a relatively high level of digital skills among its population, with 69.1 percent possessing at least a basic level, exceeding the EU average of 55.6 percent. The introduction of digital subjects in schools and the availability of digital tools are seen as positive developments.
Ivan Štern, speaking to Český rozhlas Plus, noted the growing trend of attempts to restrict children’s access to social media, suggesting a wider concern across Europe. Experts from Masaryk University have cautioned against outright bans, advocating for alternative approaches.
The proposed ban raises fundamental questions about the role of government in regulating online activity and the extent to which parental responsibility should be prioritized. While proponents argue that state intervention is necessary to protect vulnerable children, opponents emphasize the importance of individual freedom and the potential for unintended consequences.
The Czech government’s consideration of this measure comes at a time of increasing awareness of the psychological and social effects of social media, particularly on young people. The debate is likely to continue as policymakers weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks of a ban, and explore alternative strategies for creating a safer online environment for children.
The outcome of this debate could set a precedent for other countries in the region, as governments grapple with the challenges of navigating the digital age and protecting the well-being of their citizens.
