Ara City Radio

Denmark will ban mobile phones in schools and after-school clubs following recommendations from a government commission. The move also advises against giving children under 13 their own smartphones or tablets. The new law will require all folkeskole—comprehensive primary and lower secondary schools—to become phone-free, affecting children aged 7 to 16-17. This marks a significant policy shift, as the government had previously resisted such measures. The decision aligns with broader European efforts to regulate children’s screen time and social media exposure. In 2023, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen established the Danish Wellbeing Commission to address rising dissatisfaction among youth. Its recently published report highlights concerns over digital overexposure and calls for a healthier balance between online and offline life. The commission’s research found that 94% of young people had a social media profile before turning 13, despite age restrictions on many platforms. Additionally, children aged 9 to