In Poland, a new school term has begun: mobile phone use banned

With the start of the new academic year in Polonya, a comprehensive regulation on students' use of mobile phones has been implemented.

In elementary schools across the country, students are prohibited from using mobile phones and similar electronic devices during class hours, recesses, and other school activities. A stricter policy is applied in pre‑school institutions, where children attending those facilities are not allowed to bring mobile phones or similar devices to school.

High schools left out of scope

The new regulation does not cover high‑school students. However, high schools may impose restrictions on mobile‑phone use in line with their own school regulations.

According to Polonya's public broadcaster TVP World, there are also some exceptions in the implementation. Use of devices for educational purposes, communication with parents in emergencies, and phone use for health reasons may be permitted. Life‑threatening situations and special health needs will also be considered exceptions.

Purpose: Protect children from harmful content

The ban on mobile phones is being implemented as part of the Polish government's broader efforts to protect children from risks in the digital world.

Officials aim to reduce children's exposure to harmful online content and digital addiction.

Social Media Restrictions for Under-15s on the Agenda

The Polish government is also working on new measures that will not be limited to regulations on phone use in schools.

The Warsaw administration had previously stated that it was preparing a new legal regulation on social media use for children under 15.

The initiative is also being seen as part of the growing regulatory debate in Europe to protect children from social media and online content.