Poland is taking one of Europe’s toughest stances on student device use. The government has approved a bill that would prohibit students under 16 from using phones and smartwatches at school — not just during class, but throughout the entire school day, including breaks and extracurricular activities.
The bill must still pass through parliament and receive approval from President Karol Nawrocki before becoming law. If enacted, it would take effect on September 1, the start of the next school year.
What the Ban Entails
Students would still be allowed to bring their devices to school, but they would be required to leave them in a designated storage area until the end of the school day. Teachers and school staff are exempt from the restriction, as are students with medical needs — such as those who need to monitor their blood sugar levels. Devices may also be used in emergencies upon request.
The ban covers the entire school day, not just instructional time. This is a notably stricter approach than many existing school policies, which typically only restrict phone use during lessons.
A Growing European Trend
Poland isn’t alone in this push. Several European countries have implemented or are considering similar measures, citing concerns over screen addiction, cyberbullying, and declining attention spans among students. Poland’s proposal goes further than most by including smartwatches — recognizing that wearable devices can offer the same distractions as phones.
The government has also indicated it wants adult websites to implement age verification systems to keep minors out — signaling a broader regulatory push around child safety in the digital space.
What’s Next
With parliamentary approval still needed, the bill’s fate isn’t sealed. But the momentum behind it reflects a growing unease among policymakers about the role of personal devices in educational settings. For parents, educators, and students alike, this is a debate that’s far from over.
