Sweden is set to introduce a nationwide ban on mobile phones in schools, aiming to improve both security and learning conditions for students. Beginning in autumn 2026, schools and after-school clubs across the country will be required to collect students’ phones at the start of the day and return them only when classes end.The rule will apply to children aged seven to 16 and is part of a broader education reform package unveiled by the government.
In addition to the phone ban, the measures include updates to the curriculum, grading system, and teacher training.“What we are presenting today is a historic budget investment in schools and the biggest reform agenda in over 30 years,” said Education and Schools Minister Simona Mohamsson. The government has allocated 95 million kronor (£7.5m) for 2026 and 100 million kronor the following year to support the initiative.While many schools in Sweden already confiscate phones, students have often found loopholes, such as handing in fake devices or claiming their phone is broken.
Mohamsson emphasized that the upcoming ban will be universal, stating: “This should apply to everyone in all of Sweden’s classrooms. It applies to every young person in Sweden and is not optional.”Sweden’s move follows a wider European trend. Denmark recently announced a similar policy, while Norway set a minimum age of 15 for social media use.
In the Netherlands, a ban introduced in January 2024 led to improved concentration levels in classrooms, with 75% of secondary schools reporting positive effects. France has also tightened restrictions on mobile phones in middle schools.By implementing this reform, Sweden hopes to strengthen academic focus, reduce distractions, and create safer, more effective learning environments for its students.
“Sweden Announces Nationwide School Phone Ban to Boost Learning and Security”
