Czechia may ban social media for children under 15, as soon as this year

Czech children could face restrictions on social media use as soon as this year, with Prime Minister Andrej Babiš voicing support for a ban on platforms for those under 15. The PM cited experts who warn that social media can be harmful to young users and said the government aims to protect children’s well-being.

The proposal mirrors recent moves abroad, including France, which last month passed a law limiting social media access for under-15s. Several other European countries are also exploring similar measures, while Australia has also enacted a ban on social media for children under 16.

Technology use among children has been a hot topic early in 2026. Czech officials are also mulling a nationwide ban on mobile phones within schools, which could be adopted later this year, following in the footsteps of Slovakia.

Babiš discussed the social media ban for those under 15 in a video posted on his social media channels, saying: “I support this because the experts I know say it is very harmful, and we must protect our children.”

Vice PM Karel Havlíček echoed the sentiment, telling CNN Prima News on Sunday that the government is negotiating with experts and service providers and hopes to propose legislation this year. “Social media is evil,” he added.

Some politicians expressed caution. ODS MEP Alexandr Vondra noted the challenge of balancing protection with privacy rights, while Pirate Party leader Ivan Bartoš warned that such a ban could end online anonymity. Other MPs suggested educational measures may be more effective than outright prohibition.

Countries including Australia, Denmark, Spain, Slovenia, Turkey, Greece, and the UK are considering similar restrictions. France enacted its under-15 social media law last month, and the European Parliament has called for limits on access for minors.

UNICEF has cautioned that bans alone may not protect children and could even backfire. “For many children, especially those who are isolated or marginalized, social media is a source of learning, social connection, and self-expression,” the organization said last December.

The proposal is especially notable in the Czech Republic because the government itself, particularly Babiš and the ANO party, uses social media extensively to communicate with citizens.

Enforcing a ban for children under 15 could be challenging, both practically and politically. Age verification, consistent oversight, and ensuring fair access to information would all be complex when the government is also an active platform user.

The government has not yet set a timeline, but officials indicate a proposal could be submitted within the year, pending consultations with experts and operators. The debate reflects broader concerns about children’s mental health and online safety, which have been rising topics among Czech parents and educators.