Strength Against Violence: The world marks the International Day Against Bullying in Educational Institutions

Every year, on the first Thursday in November, on the initiative of UNESCO and by a decision of the organisation’s General Conference, the International Day against Violence and Bullying in Educational Institutions, including Cyberbullying is observed. In 2026, this important social and educational event falls on 5 November.

The main aim of this day is to draw the international community’s attention to the problem of systematic bullying amongst children and young people, to highlight the consequences of psychological and physical abuse for pupils’ health, and to bring together the efforts of educators, parents and the state to create a safe and inclusive educational environment.

Forms of bullying and threats in cyberspace

Bullying at school is not simply an isolated conflict between peers, but prolonged and systematic harassment characterised by an imbalance of power between the bully and the victim. With the development of digital technology, this violence often extends beyond the classroom and moves onto social media and messaging apps, turning into cyberbullying that continues round the clock.

Psychologists and educators identify several main types of harm and manifestations of bullying:

• Physical bullying: pushing, tripping, damaging personal belongings or causing physical harm.
• Psychological and verbal: name-calling, threats, humiliating jokes, mocking someone’s appearance or social status.
• Social (social isolation): deliberately ignoring a child within a group, ostracising them, and spreading gossip and false rumours.
• Cyberbullying: hateful comments, posting compromising photos or videos without consent, and creating fake accounts to harass others.

Prevention and creating a safe environment

Tackling violence in educational institutions requires a clear and coordinated response from all those involved in the educational process. A child who has been a victim of or witnessed bullying must know that they are not left to deal with the problem alone and can always count on protection and support from adults.

To tackle bullying effectively, experts recommend that every educational institution develop clear response procedures, organise training sessions on emotional intelligence and media literacy, and involve school psychologists. Marking this day serves as yet another reminder that every child has an inalienable right to an education in an atmosphere of respect, dignity and care.

Read more news on GreenPost.