France: Banning smartphones from secondary schools: a public health measure

Banning smartphones from secondary schools: a public health measure
By : Phonegate Team • 14 Apr 2025

During the Senate’s topical questions to the government on April 9, 2025, concerning the ban on smartphones in secondary schools, French Education Minister Élisabeth Borne confirmed the extension to all secondary schools of the “digital break” from September 2025. This announcement follows a question from Senator François Bonhomme (LR), concerned about the “harmful use” of cell phones among young people.

This initiative builds on Law n°2018-698 of August 3, 2018, which already banned the use of mobile phones in kindergartens, elementary schools and secondary schools during school hours, while allowing students to keep them on their person. The move to a total ban (deposit in secure lockers) marks a further step towards this “digital break” deemed necessary for the well-being of young people.

Educational and social benefits of banning smartphones in secondary school

The experiment conducted in 190 secondary schools since September 2024 is showing convincing results. Feedback points to an improved school climate (less tension, greater social interaction) and better student concentration.

“The longer you keep your smartphone within reach, the lower your attention span and learning performance. There’s no longer any doubt about it“, stresses Prof. Klaus Zierer.

Exposure to electromagnetic radiation: a neglected health imperative

Scientific data reveal underestimated dangers requiring a more ambitious political response and enhanced government action:

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