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Polish president signs bill to ban 'trash streaming'

17.07.2026 13:30
Poland's president has signed legislation aimed at curbing so-called "trash streaming," a form of online broadcasting that features violent, degrading or otherwise harmful material for entertainment and profit.
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President Karol Nawrocki signed the bill into law after it was overwhelmingly approved by both houses of parliament.

Under the law, anyone who publicly distributes online material depicting the commission of a criminal offence for financial or personal gain could face a prison sentence, Poland's PAP news agency reported.

The measure also covers material showing animal abuse or the killing of animals, as well as the humiliation or degrading treatment of another person, even with that person's consent.

The legislation applies to recordings or live broadcasts depicting serious crimes punishable by at least five years in prison, including violent offences against life, health, personal freedom, sexual freedom and family welfare.

It also covers animal cruelty, the killing of animals, acts causing humiliation or degradation, and illegal gambling activities.

Those who distribute online material depicting prohibited acts committed against minors could face prison terms ranging from three months to five years.

Work on the legislation was initiated by lawmakers from both the governing coalition and the opposition. Separate proposals were submitted by the opposition Law and Justice (PiS) party and the governing Civic Coalition (KO) before being combined during parliamentary proceedings.

Trash streaming refers to the recording, publication or live broadcasting of vulgar, obscene, shocking or violent material, often intended to attract views and generate revenue on social media platforms.

(gs)

Source: IAR, PAP