Denmark is poised to implement a nationwide ban on personal smartphones and tablets in schools. Education Minister Mattias Tesfaye is spearheading this legislative change, which will prohibit the use of these devices both during classes and breaks. The initiative is backed by Culture Minister Jakob Engel-Schmidt, who views screens as detrimental to childhood development. A government commission dedicated to youth well-being has also recommended this measure.
The planned ban aims to safeguard children’s mental health and well-being. Concerns have been raised about the impact of smartphones on self-esteem and the potential for exposure to inappropriate content. Reports indicate that children between the ages of 9 and 14 can spend up to three hours daily on platforms like TikTok and YouTube, which can disrupt healthy childhood activities.
This proposal marks a significant shift in government policy, having previously resisted such a legislative move. The overarching goal is to reclaim educational spaces and ensure they remain conducive to learning. While the law is still being formulated, there is an acknowledgment that local authorities may have the discretion to make exceptions, particularly for students with special needs.
Denmark's initiative aligns with similar trends in countries like France and Norway, which are also taking steps to limit children's digital access. As the details are still under development, the Danish government is committed to finding a balanced approach that promotes both education and the well-being of young people.
