Poland Enacts Law to Jail Online Streamers of Violent Crimes

On June 11, 2026, Polish lawmakers approved legislation targeting 'trash streaming', imposing penalties of up to five years in prison for broadcasting violent crimes, including rape and murder, as well as animal cruelty. This law is part of Poland's broader initiative to regulate online content, which also includes restrictions on mobile phone use by minors in schools and stricter age verification for accessing pornography. The new provisions classify the act of streaming serious crimes as a separate offense, carrying the same penalties. The law also applies to individuals who simulate or falsely portray such crimes during streams. This move aligns with the European Union's Digital Services Act, which mandates the swift removal of harmful content by online platforms. The responsibility for enforcing these regulations falls to individual countries, including Poland.

Key Points: • Poland's new law imposes up to five years in prison for streaming violent crimes. • The legislation targets not only real crimes but also simulated portrayals of violence. • This law is part of a broader effort to regulate online content and protect minors.