This initiative, organized by the Department of Welfare, Youth, and Demographic Challenge of the Basque Government, will take place in three participatory spaces located in Bilbao, San Sebastián, and Vitoria. Its main objective is to foster emotional well-being, raise awareness about the mobile phone's impact on coexistence, and promote a positive digital orientation.
The department stated that the initiative seeks to be "a conscious and voluntary pause" in a hyperconnected world where mobile phones are an integral part of daily life. "They inform us, connect us, and facilitate many tasks. But sometimes, without realizing it, they also distance us from those closest to us," they added.
The example we set, as parents, with social media is also important. Children often imitate what their parents do with their mobile phones at home.
Counselor Nerea Melgosa emphasized that one of the "major concerns" for families and the administration is child protection, especially regarding behaviors resulting from the abusive use of digital screens. She described the data from some recent investigations as "worrying" and stressed the need to continue working on this issue. The counselor highlighted that responsibility does not solely rest with the educational system, as families play a fundamental role.
The activity, which is free and open to all citizens, will invite participants to deposit their mobile phones in secure, supervised bags for a few hours. The spaces, open from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, will be staffed by qualified personnel to create a climate of trust and adapt the dynamics to the diversity of families.
Families can sign a symbolic commitment to prioritize shared moments, set an example of responsible technology use, promote screen-free activities, and establish clear agreements on mobile phone use. This initiative is part of the actions outlined in the V Plan for Families, Children, and Adolescents of Euskadi, which promotes healthy family environments and a balanced use of technologies.
