The Generalitat has taken its first formal step towards regulating screen use among minors, approving a preliminary report for a proposed law that aims to combat digital addiction and promote responsible technology use. The move was confirmed on Tuesday 27 October 2026 during the Consell Executiu, the regional government’s executive council.

Sílvia Paneque, spokesperson for the Catalan Executive, outlined the initiative at a press conference, stating that the government will do "everything it can" to limit screen exposure and address growing concerns over addiction among young people. The preliminary report paves the way for a full draft bill focused on ensuring "responsible, healthy, and safe" digital practices for children and adolescents.

Under the proposed framework, the government aims to tackle health issues linked to excessive screen time and establish clear regulations on minors’ access to artificial intelligence (AI) tools. This includes a push to reintroduce physical textbooks in Catalan schools and to strengthen emphasis on handwriting and oral expression in classrooms.

The initiative aligns with broader efforts informed by the Manifesto for the Digital Rights of Children and Adolescents in Catalonia, a participatory project developed with input from over 800 young people. That report stressed the need for age-appropriate digital autonomy and support from adults, rather than outright prohibition.

Next Steps Include Public Consultation

The Generalitat plans to open a public consultation in November 2026 to gather feedback on the future Catalan law for digital wellbeing, as confirmed by earlier statements from the government. While specific restrictions have not yet been detailed, the consultation will shape the final legislation.

"We believe supervision by families and schools is essential, but should not be based on prohibition,"

stated youth contributors in the digital rights manifesto, advocating for tools that allow safe exploration online, tailored to emotional maturity and age.

Focus on Education and Family Engagement

The government’s strategy also reflects existing educational values in Catalonia, where classroom instruction and materials are predominantly in Catalan, and where recent policy discussions have centred on strengthening reading, writing, and mental arithmetic skills.

Parents and educators will be key partners in implementing any future rules. The final law could introduce guidelines on device use in schools, age thresholds for AI tools, and recommendations for family digital routines.

Sources: Generalitat de Catalunya.