Czech government decides on smartphone ban in schools

The Czech government has approved a bill that would implement a strict ban on smartphones and other electronic communication devices in schools, extending even to break times. The proposed legislation, championed by the right-wing populist Prime Minister Andrej Babiš, aims to take effect on September 1, 2027, pending approval from both chambers of parliament.

The move has drawn sharp criticism from the opposition, who label it as populist. Martin Kupka, leader of the Civic Democratic Party (ODS), argued that instead of a ban, schools should focus on teaching children how to use digital media responsibly and introduce school tablets nationwide. He expressed concern that a widespread ban would turn teachers into "backpack inspectors."

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A blanket ban on mobile phones will turn teachers into backpack inspectors.

Further opposition comes from Martin Beneš, the Czech Commissioner for Children's Rights, who warned that the ban could foster a negative perception of school among children, making it feel like a place that restricts their freedom without their input. Beneš also pointed out that such a law might be redundant, as 93 percent of schools already regulate smartphone use in their internal rules.

Proponents of the bill argue it will improve student concentration in class and prevent cyberbullying via social media channels. The ban would apply to all students up to the end of compulsory education, covering not only lessons but also breaks, lunch, and after-school care. Discussions about smartphone bans in schools are ongoing in other European countries, including Germany, and the EU is also considering a ban on social media for children.

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The ban could lead to children perceiving school negatively – as a place that restricts their freedom, without them being involved in shaping the rules.