Poland Moves to Ban Phones in Schools

The Polish government plans to ban the use of mobile phones in primary schools from 1 September while tightening rules on children's access to pornographic content. Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced the measures.

The proposal would apply to children aged seven to 15. They would not be allowed to use mobile phones during lessons or breaks, while schools would be given a legal basis to provide storage for the devices.

"We propose a ban on cell phone use in primary schools ​during lessons and breaks ... We are convinced that parents and teachers should have such a tool", Tusk said.

According to the prime minister, society is facing growing problems linked to addiction to digital platforms and video games, which can have serious consequences, particularly for children.

A separate bill from the Ministry of Digital Affairs aims to restrict minors' access to pornography. Age verification could not be based solely on a user's declaration, biometric data or tracking of their online activity.

In February, Education Minister Barbara Nowacka also proposed banning access to social media platforms for children under 15. Technology companies, however, argue that how devices are used and the effectiveness of parental controls are more important than bans.

(reuters, bak)