Polish lower house votes 419–19 to criminalise patostreaming, sending ban bill to the Senate
The Sejm approved legislation on 11 June that makes it a crime to broadcast or publish videos depicting serious crimes, animal abuse, or humiliating treatment online. The bill now moves to the Senate.
Overwhelming cross-party support
The bill passed with 419 votes in favour, 19 against, and one abstention. The governing coalition and the largest opposition party, Law and Justice (PiS), both backed the legislation. All 178 voting PiS MPs supported it, while the Confederation party formed the core of the opposition.
- In favour
- 419
- Against
- 19
- Abstentions
- 1
What the law forbids
The measure criminalises the online dissemination of content showing the commission of a serious offence, the abuse or killing of animals (including cephalopods), or degrading treatment of another person, even with that person's consent. Broadcasting such material in order to obtain a financial or personal gain is punishable by imprisonment. Offences involving a minor carry a penalty of three months to five years.
Several exceptions are carved out. The law does not apply to acts undertaken as part of artistic, educational, press, or scientific activity, or when the content serves the public interest.
Path to the vote
The push to regulate patostreaming gained momentum after Polsat News launched its "Nie dla patocelebrytów" (No to patho-celebrities) campaign in autumn 2024. On 17 January 2025 the outlet reported that the ministries of digital affairs, justice and education had started drafting protections for minors online. Both PiS and Civic Coalition later tabled their own bills. The Extraordinary Commission for Codification Changes approved amendments on 10 June, clearing the way for Thursday's vote.
- Polsat News launches 'Nie dla patocelebrytów' campaign
- Ministries begin drafting protections for minors online
- Commission approves amendments to the bill
- Sejm passes the ban with 419 votes in favour
The Magical visit and its fallout
A day before the vote, patostreamer Daniel "Magical" Zwierzyński was seen in the Sejm corridors. Reporters established that he had been invited by MP Łukasz Mejza. Equality minister Katarzyna Kotula said she would ask the Chancellery of the Sejm to explain how the pass was issued. Despite the controversy, Mejza voted in favour of the ban.
Next steps
The adopted text now goes to the Senate. If approved without changes, it will be presented to the president for signature.
