In Ukraine, bullying is not only a social problem, but also a serious offense that has a negative impact on the mental and physical condition of victims. The Ombudsman of Ukraine Dmitry Lubinets provided clarification on the main types of bullying and mechanisms of protection against this phenomenon. Buling can be manifested not only in schools but also in other areas of life, in particular at work or social networks.
Basic types of bullying:
- Psychological - images, humiliation, intimidation, slander.
- Physical - blows, kicks, pushing, causing physical damage.
- Sexual - humiliating looks, gestures, jokes, unacceptable touches.
- Economic - theft, damage to personal belongings, extortion of money, etc.
Definition of bullying as violence and child abuse is extended in the Law of Ukraine “On Amendments to Certain Laws of Ukraine on Prevention
Buling can be manifested not only in real life, but also in online space.
Cyberbuling is a form of bullying, which is done through electronic communications. These include the spread of offensive materials on the Internet, the creation of fake accounts, the publication of compromising photos and videos, as well as images, slander and harassment through social networks.
Signs of bullying:
- The actions of the offender are repeated and systematic. Buller can ignore the victim, prevent it from the team or use physical force.
- The bullying has clear aspects of the conflict: the abuser, the victim and often the observers.
- The victim feels fear, anxiety, shame, social isolation.
If the child is a victim of bullying or witness, it is important not to remain silent. It is recommended to tell the adult who is trusting the child: parents, teachers, psychologist or school administration.
You can also seek help from special hotlines, where they will provide the necessary support and tips.
For parents:
- Write a statement to the school administration about the fact of bullying.
- Report the case to a local department of education or police.
Use Hot lines:
Children's line: 116 111 or 0 800 500 225; Bullying line: 116 000; Hotline to prevent violence: 116 123 or 0 800 500 335; Center for Free Legal Aid: 0 800 213 103
Also, “Report Bulling” on the ACC website (both parents and children, including anonymously) can apply.
Buling is a violation of the child's rights. According to Article 173-4 of the Code of Administrative Offenses, for bullying:
- Penalties from 850 to 3400 UAH;
- Public work from 20 to 60 hours.
Not only the abusers but also Buller's parents and other legal representatives can be responsible. Parliament is considering new legislative initiatives to strengthen responsibility for harassment.
The punishment may expect all involved in the case of participants in the educational process, including observers who are silent. Each of us can stop bullying if there is no left.
If the administration of the educational institution or its founder ignore the problem of bullying, contact the Ombudsman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine on Human Rights:
Postal address: str. Institutskaya, 21/8, Kyiv, 01008;
E -mail: [Email Protected]
Phones:
0 800 501 720
044 299 74 08
Educational Ombudsman Nadiya Leshchyk urged not to be afraid to report the sexual harassment and unethical behavior of teachers, emphasizing the problems in the work of ethical commissions, which often protect teachers more than students.
