Following growing concerns across Europe about the negative impacts of social media use on young people, Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis has voiced support for a ban targeting children under 15. This stance aligns with the recent decisions in several European nations, including Spain and Greece, which have proposed bans on social media usage for teenagers.
On Sunday, February 8, 2026, Babis shared his views via video messages on various social platforms. In an interview aired later that day on CNN Prima News, first deputy prime minister Karel Havlicek indicated the cabinet was seriously considering a ban’s proposal. Should this go ahead, legislation is expected to be introduced within the year.
Babis’ support comes after Australia became the first nation to prohibit access to social media platforms for under-16s in December. “I am in favor because experts say it’s terribly harmful to children,” he stated without elaborating on specifics in his public message.
The Czech stance reflects a broader European trend where concerns over addictive technology are intensifying, particularly among younger audiences. Banning minors from social media is just one of the measures governments and regulators around the world are considering regarding the impact of children’s screen time on their development and mental health.
Spain’s recent announcement has sparked controversy with billionaire tech mogul Elon Musk, who owns X (formerly Twitter), responding angrily. Meanwhile, Britain and France are exploring Australia-style bans as part of legislation to be implemented in the near future.