European Schools Implement Smartphone Bans to Combat Distractions and Bullying

As the new academic year begins, several European countries are implementing bans on smartphone use in schools to combat screen addiction and cyberbullying, Anadolu Agency reported yesterday.

Hungary’s recent ban has faced protests from teachers and parents, who deem it outdated. The Netherlands has extended its ban from secondary to elementary schools, citing concerns over distractions and exam performance. Belgium’s French-speaking schools have also adopted similar measures due to incidents of harassment linked to smartphone use.

Greece requires students to keep phones in bags, while France is piloting a program for students to lock phones in lockers. Ireland is considering a ban for students under 16. Meanwhile, countries like Germany and Poland allow individual schools to set their own policies, with many opting for restrictions.