Luxembourg’s smartphone ban in schools kicks in after Easter

Luxembourg’s ban of smartphones will kick in after Easter in primary schools and after Pentecost in secondary schools, the education ministry confirmed on Thursday, after first announcing the policy in September.

From 22 April, the use of smartphones and internet-connected devices such as tablets will be prohibited during the school day in primary schools and maison relais, as well as during breaks and school activities.

Exceptions will be made for educational use under teacher supervision or for medical reasons with a doctor’s certificate. Students needing their smartphones for contact before or after school must keep them turned off and stored in their backpacks.

Violations may result in confiscation until the end of the school day. Repeated violations will prompt parental notification.

Smartphone ban also in secondary schools

In secondary schools, students will be required to keep smartphones away during lessons starting 2 June, after the Pentecost holidays, the ministry had already announced in September.

Each secondary school will develop their own charter outlining these rules, and may impose additional restrictions in consultation with the school community. The use of smartphones during lessons had already been largely prohibited across many state schools.

The ministry campaign

Studies link excessive digital consumption to mental health issues, physical development problems, and lower academic performance. “The growing negative effects of excessive screen time and social media on the mental and physical development of children are well-documented and are expected to grow,” the ministry said in a press release.

The newly launched “screen life balance campaign” for the the 2024/2025 school year intends to reduce screen time and encourage a healthy balance between digital and real-life activities among children and teens.