Luxembourg restricts smartphones in schools: new rules kick in

With the start of the third school quarter in Luxembourg, a new stage in the fight against digital addiction among children and adolescents will begin. The Ministry of Education, Childhood and Youth is introducing strict restrictions on the use of smartphones and other internet-connected devices in educational institutions. The measure is part of the government's Screen life balance campaign, launched in September 2024, which aims to restore a healthy balance between digital and real life among the younger generation.

From 22 April 2025, pupils in mainstream schools will be completely banned from using smartphones and similar devices throughout the school day. The ban applies to all time in the school building, including breaks and extra-curricular activities. Exceptions will only be allowed in the following cases:

• when using the devices for educational purposes under the supervision of a teacher,
• in the presence of medical indications confirmed by a certificate,
• with the child's specific needs.

If a child needs to be in touch before or after school, they may bring their phone, but must keep it switched off and in their backpack. If the rules are broken, the smartphone will be confiscated for the rest of the day and parents will be contacted by the administration for repeated offences.

Similar rules will apply to day care homes (maisons relais).

For lycées, more flexible but no less drastic measures are coming into force. From 2 June 2025, physical isolation of smartphones during lessons will be compulsory in all secondary education institutions. This means that devices must be put away and not used in lessons, except for pedagogical necessity.

Each school will develop its own charter defining the specific details of the restrictions - from prohibition in certain areas to age gradations. All innovations will be implemented in dialogue with representatives of school communities - students, parents and teachers.

Scientific research has long warned that excessive gadget use reduces concentration, impairs sleep, contributes to anxiety and depression, and can interfere with social skills. The Screen life balance campaign aims to reduce screen time in children and teenagers to bring attention back to live interaction, sports and real-life hobbies.

Luxembourg was one of the first countries in Europe to introduce such clear and structured measures against digital addiction in schools. Going forward, the authorities are looking at additional initiatives aimed at digital hygiene as an important component of the education of the future.