Germany Divided Over Smartphone Policies in Schools

Hessen finalizes a smartphone ban for 2025, while Baden-Württemberg and Sachsen pursue contrasting approaches.

Hessen will implement a ban on private smartphone use in schools starting August 2025, with exceptions for emergencies and medical needs.
Baden-Württemberg is drafting legislation requiring schools to establish their own rules for smartphone use, emphasizing age-appropriate policies.
Sachsen opposes outright bans, advocating for media competence education to help students navigate digital challenges responsibly.
The national Bildungsministerkonferenz discussed the issue informally, but no consensus or unified national policy has been reached.
International examples, including France and Italy, which have implemented similar bans, influence the debate but highlight regional differences in Germany.