Netherlands bans mobile phones in schools and expands child labor rules
The Netherlands has announced a 40-point plan to completely ban mobile phones in schools to reduce internet risks and classify content creators under 15 as child laborers.
The Dutch government has prepared a comprehensive action plan consisting of approximately 40 points to protect children from risks in internet, social media, and digital games. In line with the plan, the use of mobile phones will be completely banned in primary and secondary schools, and content creators under the age of 15 will be included under the scope of child labor.
Complete Ban Incoming in Schools
The use of mobile phones in primary and secondary education institutions in the Netherlands will be completely banned starting January 1, 2027. The government will expand the restrictions on breaks and schoolyards, which have been implemented since 2024, to also cover common areas after consultations with education sector representatives.
Child Labor and Influencer Regulation
Within the framework of the new regulations, vlogger families who use their children in content creation and social media influencers known as kidfluencers are also targeted. Online content featuring children under the age of fifteen will be considered child labor, and fines will be imposed on families who fail to comply with the rules.
Social Media and Age Limit Goals
The government demands that the age limit for children's use of social media be 15 instead of 13. Additionally, new systems are planned to be developed to reliably verify children's ages on the internet without violating privacy.
Addictive Algorithms
Within the scope of the plan, it is proposed to limit addictive techniques and features such as autoplay on digital platforms. Experts warn that excessive screen use leads to sleep problems, myopia, and depression.
Financial Services and Platform Investigations
Buy now, pay later systems, which can lead children to easily incur debt, will be tightened. Furthermore, the effects of platforms such as Netflix, YouTube, Roblox, Fortnite, ChatGPT, Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok on children's development will be investigated.