In a landmark decision, Parliament has officially passed a bill focused on combatting bullying and cyber-bullying in schools. The new law provides a clear definition of bullying as “repeated physical or psychological aggression or harassment by an individual or group against one or more minors.” This definition aims to address the various forms of bullying that can occur within educational settings.

One of the key components of the new law is the requirement for all schools to develop a code of prevention for bullying and establish a psychological support service. These measures are crucial in creating a safe and supportive environment for students, where they can seek help and guidance if they become victims of bullying.

Additionally, the legislation introduces rehabilitation courses for both perpetrators and victims of bullying. By providing support and resources for individuals on both sides of the issue, the hope is that lasting solutions can be found to prevent future incidents of bullying.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a Day of Respect on January 20th, in memory of Willy Monteiro Duarte, a 21-year-old Cape Verdian-Italian man who was tragically beaten to death by a gang of bullies near Rome in 2020. This day serves as a reminder of the devastating impacts of bullying and the importance of fostering a culture of respect and kindness in schools and communities.

Overall, this new law represents a significant step forward in addressing the pervasive issue of bullying and cyber-bullying. By defining clear parameters for what constitutes bullying, providing support services for students, and commemorating victims of bullying, Parliament is sending a strong message that this behavior will not be tolerated in society.

Moving forward, it will be essential for schools, parents, and communities to work together to implement the provisions of this law effectively. By promoting awareness, education, and empathy, we can create a culture where bullying is no longer accepted and all individuals can feel safe and respected in their learning environments.

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