The Feasibility of Digital Detox Laws in Developing Economies

The proliferation of digital technologies has created unprecedented challenges for mental health and well-being globally, prompting regulatory responses in developed nations. However, the feasibility of implementing digital detox laws in developing economies remains underexplored. This paper examines the viability of digital disconnection legislation in resource-constrained contexts through a comprehensive analysis of existing regulatory frameworks, infrastructure limitations, economic constraints, cultural factors, and political considerations. Drawing on international comparative evidence from 50 countries, we analyze policy mechanisms including right-to-disconnect legislation, screen time regulations, and internet addiction laws. Our findings reveal significant barriers to implementation in developing economies, including inadequate digital infrastructure, economic dependencies on digital platforms, cultural norms favoring hyperconnectivity, and weak regulatory enforcement capacity. Despite these challenges, emerging evidence from Latin American countries and select Asian nations demonstrates that adapted regulatory approaches emphasizing education, voluntary compliance, and phased implementation may offer viable pathways. We propose a context-sensitive policy framework that balances digital well-being objectives with developmental priorities, recommending multi-stakeholder collaboration, capacity building, and culturally grounded interventions. This research contributes to the nascent literature on digital regulation in developing contexts and provides evidence-based guidance for policymakers navigating the tension between technological advancement and public health protection.