The Czech government has approved a proposal for a blanket ban on the use of mobile phones, tablets, and other similar devices during classes in primary and secondary schools, as well as at the lower levels of multi-year grammar schools. The measure, proposed by Prime Minister Andrej Babiš and Minister of Education Robert Plaga, is scheduled to come into effect on September 1, 2027.
The government unanimously approved the amendment to the education law during a meeting on Monday, July 20, 2026. The ban will apply not only to classroom instruction but also to related educational activities.
According to the proposers, restricting mobile phone use is intended to improve the learning environment in classrooms, promote direct communication between children, and reduce the negative impact of excessive use of mobile devices and social media on students' mental health.
The amendment will not affect instruction in digital technologies, during which schools can continue to use electronic devices. The proposal also includes exceptions for children who need a mobile phone for medical reasons.
Government Addresses Dispute with the President
The government also discussed a statement that it will send to the Constitutional Court regarding a jurisdictional dispute with the President of the Republic. The President filed a lawsuit due to disagreements with the government regarding the composition of the Czech delegation to the NATO summit in Ankara.
In its statement, the government argues that this dispute represents another attempt to expand the powers and authority of the President beyond what is defined by the Constitution, constitutional order, ordinary laws, and existing constitutional practices.
Support for Czech Exports to Ukraine Continues
The government also approved the continuation of support for Czech companies that export goods and services to Ukraine. Due to the war and the unstable situation in the country, it is not possible to insure many business activities through standard commercial insurance policies.
Therefore, the state provides export credit risk coverage through the Export Guarantee and Insurance Company. The capital of the Fund for Supporting Czech Business Entities is to be increased from the current 639 million crowns to one billion crowns.
"To ensure that this successful program for Czech exporters operating in Ukraine can continue, we have increased the capital allocated to the so-called Fund for Supporting Czech Business Entities from the current 639 million crowns to one billion. This increase will not affect state budget expenditures," said Prime Minister Andrej Babiš.
Working Seniors May Receive Increased Pensions
The government also discussed a proposal to amend the law on pension insurance. The changes are intended to encourage seniors to remain in the labor market even after receiving their old-age pension.
For each additional year of work, their pension rate would increase by 1.5 percent. The proposal also includes regular increases in pensions based on age.
From the age of 80, the pension rate would increase every five years by 500 crowns per month. After reaching the age of 100, the increase would be 1,000 crowns per month.
Report Warns of Radicalization of Young People Online
The government also considered a report on extremism and prejudice for the year 2025. The document states that the influence of traditional extremist groups continues to weaken, but at the same time, the problem of online radicalization among young people is worsening.
In previous years, the report noted communities focused on right-wing extremism. However, in 2025, security services identified a network of users inspired by radical Islamism. Some of them were allegedly preparing for violent activities against various targets.
The security situation in the Czech Republic continues to be influenced by the war in Ukraine and the conflict in the Middle East.
At the same time, the government took note of Hynek Kmoníček's resignation from his position as national security advisor. He will leave office on August 9, 2026.