European nations restrict mobile phone use in schools; Možemo! proposes a national ban in Croatia.
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Several European countries have implemented measures to restrict mobile phone use in schools, and Možemo! plans to propose a ban in Croatia as well. While some countries allow individual schools flexibility—such as requiring phones to be turned off or surrendered—others have enacted national laws, like Finland’s 2025 regulation for students aged 7 to 16, permitting exceptions for educational or health reasons. In Croatia, while the national level has not addressed the issue, Zagreb has recommended that primary schools ban mobile phone use during school hours and breaks. Možemo! is pushing for this recommendation to become a mandatory national rule by proposing legislation in Parliament. The push stems from concerns over negative impacts of excessive mobile phone use on mental health, sleep, concentration, family relationships, and exposure to online violence, supported by research showing high teacher support for bans. While some attempts at regulation have faced legal hurdles, such as in Czech Republic, other political parties, including far-right groups in Austria, are advocating for restrictions. The increasing number of countries taking action suggests a growing consensus on the need to address this issue.
