The Dutch government plans to implement a nationwide ban on smartphones in schools starting January 1, 2027, during both lesson and break times. This initiative, part of the “At Home or in the Vault” policy, aims to mitigate digital distractions and shield children from online risks. The move is designed to enhance students’ focus and limit their exposure to potentially harmful online content.
While numerous schools in the Netherlands have already adopted similar measures, the government intends for the new rules to motivate remaining schools to follow suit. This smartphone ban is a component of a broader strategy to improve online safety for children. As part of these efforts, the government is advocating for a European minimum age for social media use, emphasizing the need for technology companies to take greater responsibility for ensuring child safety on their platforms.
In addition to the proposed smartphone ban, the Dutch government is conducting reviews of popular digital services, including social media platforms, streaming services, and online games. The reviews aim to determine whether these services comply with stricter child-safety requirements. Concerns addressed by these measures include addictive platform designs, unwanted contact, and exposure to harmful content, all of which contribute to the government’s focus on creating a safe environment for children both offline and online.