2023 International Day Against School Violence focuses on mental health: No place for fear in education

Today, the 2nd of November, the world commemorates the International Day Against Violence and Bullying at School, Including Cyberbullying. This annual observance, every first Thursday of November, aims to raise awareness of the pervasive issue of violence and bullying in educational institutions, with a special focus this year on the critical theme of mental health, under the banner of “No place for fear: Ending school violence for better mental health and learning.”

The importance of this day cannot be overstated, as schools are meant to be safe and supportive environments for both learners and teachers. However, evidence demonstrates that this is not always the case, with violence and bullying often finding their way into these supposed sanctuaries.

School violence knows no boundaries and occurs in all countries, affecting countless children and adolescents. It can take various forms, such as physical, psychological, and sexual violence, as well as gender-based violence, bullying, and cyberbullying. The impact of school violence, particularly on mental health, has been exacerbated by the global challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The link between school violence, mental health, and learning outcomes is undeniable. Good mental health and well-being are associated with improved school engagement, increased attendance, and better academic performance. Conversely, poor mental health and well-being contribute to underachievement, absenteeism, disruptive classroom behavior, suspension, expulsion, and school dropout.

Bullying, in particular, is associated with risk behaviors and can significantly impact a child’s mental health and quality of life. The message is clear: we cannot afford to look away from this issue. It’s not merely about ending violence but also safeguarding the well-being and lives of our children. There is no place for fear in our schools, and it is imperative to end violence and bullying for the sake of better mental health and learning. All learners should have the opportunity to learn and thrive in a safe and nurturing environment.

School violence is not only a matter of human rights but also carries significant costs for education systems if left unaddressed. It’s high time to place learners’ health and well-being at the center of education and transform the way we approach learning.

Shocking statistics emphasise the urgency of addressing this issue. Globally, one in three learners is bullied at school every month. Over 36% of learners have been involved in physical fights with their peers, and nearly one in three has experienced physical attacks within a year. The consequences of bullying are severe, with victims being twice as likely to feel lonely, suffer from sleep disturbances, and contemplate suicide. Frequent bullying results in worse educational outcomes, including lower scores in mathematics and reading tests.

Cyberbullying is on the rise, affecting up to one in ten children. Boys are more likely to be involved in physical violence, while psychological bullying is more common among girls. Gender non-conforming learners are at higher risk of school violence and bullying. Shockingly, corporal punishment is still allowed in schools in 68 countries.

Legal protections against school violence, including psychological, physical, and sexual violence, are present in only 28 countries. Additionally, legislation to prevent and act on cyberbullying is in place in just 16% of countries. Restricting the use of smartphones in school, a potential safeguard, has been implemented in only a quarter of countries.

The International Day Against Violence and Bullying at School Including Cyberbullying was established in 2019 by 193 UNESCO Member States, recognising that school-related violence infringes on children and adolescents’ rights to health and education.

In 2023, UNESCO’s call to end violence and promote good mental health in schools resonates loudly. The observance of this day is not merely a symbolic gesture but a call to action. To mark the day, a range of global and regional events will take place. A webinar is being planned by IITE and the UNESCO Chair on Global Health and Education, along with the participation of HAE Section and GEMR on the 6th of November.

This International Day is a reminder of the urgent need to create safe and supportive environments in our schools where learners can thrive, free from fear and violence. It’s an opportunity for the global community to unite in the pursuit of a better future for our children, one where violence and bullying have no place.