The Czech government has unanimously approved a ban on mobile phones in kindergartens, primary schools, and the lower grades of multi-year gymnasia and conservatories. The legislation is proposed to take effect on 1 September 2027.
The proposal bypassed the standard legislative review process, a move attributed to the need to accelerate its passage. The government cited recommendations from the National Institute of Mental Health and precedents from France and the Netherlands as justification.
Children's Ombudsman Martin Beneš opposed the measure as redundant, noting internal school regulations already suffice. Currently, 93 percent of schools already regulate phone use in their own codes of conduct. Education Minister Robert Plaga reportedly suggested Beneš visit schools that have already implemented bans.