Brussels, August 19, 2025 – The Europe Today: Belgium will implement a nationwide ban on the use of cellphones and other electronic devices in primary and secondary schools starting from the 2025–2026 academic year, except for educational purposes, health needs, or emergencies, according to media reports.
While the country’s three language communities have previously applied different rules, the new measures will standardize restrictions across all regions, leaving schools to decide on disciplinary procedures.
In the French-speaking community, which covers Wallonia and the capital Brussels, cellphone use in primary schools had already been prohibited since the previous academic year, while secondary schools had adopted strict limitations to discourage usage. Under the new regulations, recreational use of phones and devices will now be banned across preschools, primary, and secondary levels.
In the German-speaking region, beginning in 2025–2026, students will not be allowed to use cellphones, smartwatches, or other connected devices during lessons or breaks. Schools will retain autonomy in setting the implementation details and disciplinary measures.
In Flanders, a ban was already in effect for preschools and primary schools. The new rules will extend the prohibition to secondary schools, introduced in stages. For the first two years of secondary education, phones and smartwatches will be completely banned, while in the third year, the restriction will apply only during class hours.
Belgium’s academic calendar begins on August 25 in French-speaking schools and on September 1 in the Flemish and German-speaking regions.
