Bullying is a serious issue that can have long-term negative effects on the mental health and well-being of the victim. As such, addressing bullying requires a multi-faceted approach that involves educators, parents, and students working together to create a safe and supportive school environment.
That’s why protecting all children from violence, including violence in schools and cyberbullying, is one of the strategic priorities of the current Council of Europe Strategy on the Rights of the Child 2022-2027.
However, what is still missing is a specific European programme designed to prevent and reduce peer bullying/cyberbullying at schools and not only. Here are some steps that European Union can take to help address cyberbullying and create a European educational program that all schools, youth associations, and so on can use:
Create clear policies: Europe should have clear policies in place that define what constitutes cyberbullying and outline the consequences for those who engage in it. These policies should also outline how students can report incidents of cyberbullying and what support will be available to victims.
Educate students: Schools should educate students about cyberbullying, including the different forms it can take, how to recognize it, and what to do if they or someone they know is a victim of cyberbullying. Students should also be taught about responsible online behaviour and the importance of respecting others online.
Encourage a positive online culture: Schools can encourage a positive online culture by promoting kindness, empathy, and respect online. This can be done through initiatives such as online campaigns, social media posts, and classroom discussions.
Provide support: Schools should have support systems in place for students who are victims of cyberbullying. This can include counselling services, peer support groups, and other resources that can help victims cope with the effects of cyberbullying.
