The Czech government has approved a draft law to ban mobile phones and smartwatches in schools nationwide, with a proposed effective date of 1 September 2027, pending parliamentary approval. Supporters say the ban will improve classroom concentration and curb cyberbullying, while opponents call it unnecessary and argue for digital literacy education and state-funded devices instead. Children's rights commissioner Martin Beneš warned the law could alienate pupils and noted that 93% of schools already have internal smartphone rules.
Czech Cabinet Approves Nationwide Ban on Mobile Phones and Smartwatches in Schools From 2027
FILE PHOTO - A student sits at a desk with her cell phone and school supplies. (is associated with: «Czech government approves bill for school mobile phone ban from 2027») Sven Hoppe/dpa
The Czech government on Monday approved a draft law that would prohibit mobile phones and other electronic communication devices, including smartwatches, in schools nationwide. The measure is scheduled to take effect on September 1, 2027 if both chambers of parliament pass the bill.
The proposed ban would apply across the whole school day — during lessons, breaks, lunchtime and in after-school care — and would cover all pupils until they complete the country’s nine years of compulsory education. Supporters say the restriction will help pupils concentrate in class and reduce harassment carried out via social media and messaging apps.
Opponents describe the move as heavy-handed. Many argue that schools should focus on teaching responsible digital use and that public funds are better spent on providing devices such as tablets and improving digital literacy rather than imposing a blanket ban.
'A blanket mobile phone ban turns teachers into backpack inspectors,' Martin Kupka, leader of the Civic Democratic Party (ODS), said.
Martin Beneš, the Czech children's rights commissioner, also criticized the draft. He warned the ban could make pupils see school as a place that restricts their freedom if they are not involved in setting the rules, and pointed out that 93% of Czech schools already regulate smartphone use through internal policies, suggesting national legislation may be redundant.
The draft law has intensified a broader debate over the best way to manage young people's use of digital devices: national legislation versus local school rules combined with stronger digital education. If parliament approves the bill, the ban would come into force on September 1, 2027.
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