Czech Republic public supports primary school mobile phone ban

A national poll conducted by the NMS Public Opinion Research Institute reveals that 76 percent of the Czech population supports a ban on mobile phone use in primary schools. The proposal, initially raised by Prime Minister Andrej Babiš and Education Minister Robert Plaga, was presented to the Chamber of Deputies in July with government support. If approved by parliament, the ban would take effect in September 2027.

While the public largely views the measure as a way to ensure students focus on learning, experts have expressed reservations. Lukas Blinka from Masaryk University described the move as potentially being a “political gesture” rather than a solution to educational issues. Additionally, teachers have warned that a total ban could hinder students from accessing electronic gradebooks during breaks or completing homework via mobile applications during after-school clubs.

Furthermore, 71 percent of respondents agreed that students should be restricted from using social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, and TikTok. Under current Czech regulations, users under the age of 15 are already required to use these platforms under parental supervision.