AED Foundation Warns: Phone Bans Jeopardize Student Safety

Concerns are rising in Japan that restrictions on teachers' private smartphone use, implemented after voyeurism scandals, could critically impair emergency communication and endanger students. The AED Foundation of Japan highlighted this issue on June 23, suggesting that sweeping bans might weaken schools' protective responsibilities.

The foundation unequivocally denounced the unacceptable acts of voyeurism, advocating for their strict elimination. However, they stressed the importance of maintaining communication devices for teachers. This is crucial for calling emergency services and receiving expert guidance during critical incidents, such as a student's cardiac arrest, potentially saving lives.

Chairperson Hideo Mitamura explained that while banning phones might seem like a safety measure for children, removing emergency communication tools could pose a direct threat. He cited examples beyond medical emergencies, including school intrusions, recent bear sightings, and a fire at an elementary school.

These discussions follow a spate of cases in 2025 where teachers secretly photographed students and shared images online. In response, several local governments are moving to ban personal smartphones in areas where students are active, like classrooms and pools, to prevent recurrence.