Bullying remains one of the most common problems in schools. To effectively combat bullying, the state is stepping up its information campaign, developing response mechanisms and creating a safe educational environment for children and teenagers.
What is bullying and how to recognise it
According to Ukrainian law, bullying is an act committed by participants in the educational process that involves psychological, physical, economic or sexual violence, including the use of electronic means of communication. It can be directed both against a child and by a minor against other participants in the educational process, if such actions cause or may cause harm to mental or physical health.
The main characteristics of bullying are its systematic nature, the presence of parties involved — the bully, the victim and observers — the purposefulness of the actions and the negative consequences for the victim.
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Forms of bullying and how it differs from conflict
Bullying can take various forms — psychological, physical, economic, sexual, or cyberbullying. Psychological bullying includes threats, blackmail or humiliation; physical bullying includes pushing or causing bodily harm; economic bullying includes theft or damage to property; sexual bullying includes offensive actions or comments. Cyberbullying includes online harassment and the dissemination of humiliating messages, photos or videos.
At the same time, it is important to distinguish bullying from conflict. Conflict is a clash of interests between parties in an equal position, while bullying is systematic violence by the stronger party against the weaker one.
Responsibility for bullying
Bullying is punishable by administrative liability under Article 173-4 of the Code of Ukraine on Administrative Offences.
Penalties may include a fine of between 850 and 1,700 hryvnia or community service, and for repeat offences, a fine of up to 3,400 UAH or up to 60 hours of community service. If bullying is committed by minors aged between 14 and 16, their parents or legal representatives are liable.
Failure by the head of an educational institution to report cases of bullying is also an administrative offence. In the event of serious consequences, in particular bodily harm, the actions may be classified as a criminal offence.
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Where to seek help
Educational institutions are required to create a safe environment and respond to incidents of violence. If a child has been bullied, this should be reported to the school administration or the police.
You can also get help by calling:
- National Police of Ukraine — 102;
- Free legal aid system — 0 800 213 103;
- Hotline for reporting domestic violence and human trafficking — 116 123 or 0 800 500 335;
- Human Rights Commissioner of the Verkhovna Rada — 0 800 50 17 20.
Creating a safe environment at school is the shared responsibility of teachers, parents and the state. Recognising the signs of bullying and responding promptly helps to protect children and prevent violence.
