Czech Republic plans total ban on student mobile phone use in schools from 2027

The Czech Republic is set to implement a comprehensive ban on mobile phone usage within schools, with the government tabling legislation for a full prohibition starting in September 2027. Prime Minister Andrej Babiš announced the plan, stating that the country is following an international movement to limit the time children spend in front of screens during the school day.

The proposed bill mandates that mobile phones will be forbidden for students throughout the school day, encompassing both instructional periods and breaks. Limited exceptions will be permitted solely for documented health reasons or when a school explicitly approves phone use for educational activities. The legislation clearly states, "Schools will not be able to allow students to take a break with their mobile phones beyond these reasons."

This move by the Czech Republic is part of a broader wave of measures adopted by governments worldwide. The goal is to curb children's exposure to social media and digital devices, addressing concerns about their impact on young minds. Poland recently enacted a similar ban on smartphones in schools, joining countries like the Netherlands, South Korea, and Italy, all citing worries about student concentration and behavior.

Beyond school grounds, the trend extends to social media regulation. Australia was an early adopter, prohibiting children's access to social media platforms. The United Kingdom has also announced plans for a similar ban targeting individuals under 16. Prime Minister Babiš indicated that his government is also considering blocking social media websites for children, mirroring approaches taken by France and other nations adopting stricter stances on the negative effects of digital media on young people's perception and psychology.