Many countries have started to ban or limit the use of mobile phones in schools. This movement aims to reduce distractions and improve students’ focus during class. The debate around phone bans reflects growing concerns about how phones affect learning environments.
Several nations across Europe and beyond have implemented rules that restrict or outright ban mobile phones in schools. These policies vary but share the common goal of creating better conditions for education by limiting phone use during school hours.
1) France enforces a nationwide ban on mobile phones for students up to age 15 since 2018
France started banning mobile phones in schools in 2018. The ban applies to students in primary and secondary schools up to age 15. It includes not only phones but also tablets and smartwatches.
The goal was to reduce distractions and encourage students to focus on learning. Phones must be turned off and kept out of sight during school hours.
In 2024, France decided to strengthen this rule by conducting a trial to ensure better enforcement. The government calls this a "digital pause" to help children spend less time on screens while at school.
This policy was among the first in Europe to target mobile phone use in schools nationwide. Many other countries are watching France’s approach to managing technology in education.
More details are available about the ban at France’s schools in this France bans phones in schools article.
2) Italy prohibits mobile phone use in classrooms from pre-school through secondary school
Italy has banned the use of mobile phones in classrooms for students from pre-school up to secondary school. This rule was introduced to stop distractions caused by phones during lessons. The ban also aims to improve students’ focus and classroom behavior.
The Italian education ministry supports this ban because it helps protect writing skills and encourages more active learning. Phones must be kept away during school hours, even for educational purposes. This policy also limits disruptions such as ringing phones and misuse during class.
Since the ban started, many schools have seen fewer interruptions. Teachers report better attention and participation. The government believes this rule will help create a better learning environment. More details can be found in the report on Italy’s mobile phone ban in classrooms.
3) Hungary requires schools to collect students' phones at the start of the day
Hungary started enforcing a rule in September 2024 that requires students to hand over their smartphones to school staff when they arrive. Phones are kept during the school day and returned at the end. This aims to reduce distractions and improve focus in classrooms.
The decision followed studies linking phone use to lower academic performance and more bullying incidents. Schools report fewer disruptions and better student behavior since the rule began.
While students can still bring phones to school, they cannot use them during lessons or breaks. Teachers also have more control over when phones are allowed, especially in lower grades. This change is part of a broader trend across Europe to limit phone use in schools.
More details about the policy are available on the page about Hungary’s mobile phone ban in schools.
4) Russia bans mobile phones across all school grades
In late 2023, Russia's lawmakers approved a ban on mobile phones in school classrooms. The decision was made to reduce distractions and help students focus better during lessons. The ban officially started on September 1, 2024.
This rule applies to all school grades, meaning students cannot use phones during class time anywhere in the country. Schools are expected to enforce the ban strictly, with phones kept out of sight during lessons.
The government believes this policy will improve the learning environment. So far, reports indicate schools have begun adjusting routines to support the new rule. More information on this can be found at Russia’s official ban on cellphones in classrooms.
5) Sweden restricts phone use for students in grades 1 to 9
Sweden introduced restrictions on mobile phone use in schools for students from grades 1 to 9. The rules ban phones during class and break times. These measures aim to help students focus better and reduce distractions.
The policy started after research showed phones could harm learning and social interaction. Schools are responsible for enforcing the ban and can decide when phones are allowed for educational purposes.
The phone ban has sparked debate. Some parents and teachers support it, saying it improves student behavior. Others worry it limits access to useful technology. Sweden's approach is part of a wider interest in controlling phone use at school found in many countries. More details are available at Sweden’s cell phone school ban page.
Striking the Balance Between Tech and Learning
As mobile phone bans in schools become more common around the world, it’s clear that educators and policymakers are seeking better focus, stronger connections, and a healthier learning environment for students. While technology has its place, setting boundaries ensures children stay present, engaged, and inspired in the classroom.
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