Czech Republic moves to ban mobile phones in schools from September 2027

Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis announced on Monday that the government has submitted a bill to ban mobile phones in schools, with the measure set to take effect from September 2027. The move places the Czech Republic among a growing number of countries restricting smartphone use in classrooms in the name of improving concentration, behaviour, and children's wellbeing.

What the bill proposes

The draft legislation would prohibit pupils from using mobile phones not only during lessons but also during breaks, closing what critics of partial bans have long flagged as a loophole. Exceptions would be permitted on health grounds or where a school expressly allows phone use for educational purposes.

"Schools will not be able to allow students to take a break with their mobile phones beyond these reasons," the draft bill said.

Part of a wider global movement

The Czech initiative follows a wave of similar legislation across Europe and beyond. Poland introduced a classroom phone ban earlier this month, joining the Netherlands, South Korea, and Italy, all of which have imposed restrictions amid concerns over the impact of smartphones on pupils' focus and conduct. Several other countries have already enacted bans, while more are reported to be considering them.

On social media, Australia became the first country to ban children's access outright, and Britain this month announced a planned ban on social media for under-16s.

Social media restrictions also on the agenda

Prime Minister Babis said the government is now also exploring a ban on social media access for children, drawing on the examples set by France and other countries that have adopted tougher stances over concerns about the perceived negative effects of platforms on young people.

The broader package of measures reflects a hardening political consensus in Europe around limiting children's digital exposure, both inside and outside the classroom.