Poland’s President Signs Law Targeting “Trash Streaming”

Poland’s president signed a bill targeting “trash streaming,” a form of online broadcasting that monetizes violent, degrading, or abusive material. The law criminalizes publicly distributing recordings or livestreams depicting the commission of serious criminal offences for financial or personal gain, including humiliating treatment, sexual violence, and animal abuse or killing. Content involving minors carries harsher penalties. The measure passed parliament with broad support, reflecting growing concerns about harm and illegal activity enabled by viral livestreams.