Bullying remains one of the most serious problems in the school environment. Despite numerous prevention programs, the number of cases of bullying among children and adolescents remains high. The Ministry of Justice of Ukraine emphasizes: combating bullying requires a systemic approach - from raising legal awareness to creating a safe educational space.
Bullying is considered psychological, physical, economic or sexual violence, including using electronic means of communication. Its main characteristics are systematicity, the presence of parties (offender, victim, observers), purposefulness and consequences in the form of moral, psychological or physical suffering.
Bullying takes many forms, from insults, blackmail, and humiliation to beatings or cyberbullying on social media. Cyberbullying is especially dangerous because it is harder to detect and the consequences can be just as painful as physical violence.
It is important to distinguish between conflict and bullying. Conflict involves equality and mutual participation, while bullying is violence aimed at humiliation and submission, where one party has the upper hand.
Bullying in an educational environment is subject to administrative liability (Article 173-4 of the Code of Administrative Offenses):
– fines from 850 to 3,400 hryvnias or community service up to 60 hours;
– if the offense was committed by minors aged 14 to 16, their parents are liable;
– failure by the management of an educational institution to notify the authorities of bullying cases is also punishable by a fine.
In cases where the harassment has led to serious consequences or bodily harm, criminal proceedings may be initiated.
Where to seek help
If your child has become a victim of bullying or you have witnessed such an incident, contact:
– the police (102);
– the free legal aid hotline (0 800 213 103);
– the anti-violence hotline (116 123 or 0 800 500 335);
– the Verkhovna Rada Commissioner for Human Rights (0 800 50 17 20).
Every school must have a clear algorithm of actions to prevent and respond to bullying, and teaching staff are required to promptly stop dangerous actions, involve medical professionals, and notify law enforcement.
Remember: timely intervention can save not only a child's psyche, but also their life.
