Eradication of bullying involving discrimination against minorities

29.4.2016

Question for written answer E-003602-16
to the Commission
Rule 130
Brando Benifei (S&D)

Bullying is claiming an increasing number of young victims throughout Europe. For example, a secondary school pupil in Turin was recently photographed by a schoolmate, who did nothing to assist her, as she suffered an epileptic fit. The photographs, together with a number of clips in dubious taste, were then circulated to the entire class for its amusement. What is worse, it appears that the parents of those concerned have actually defended the actions of their offspring. The recording of acts of gratuitous violence and the callous and insensitive attitudes this reveals are a cause for great concern, particularly in view of the fact that, in this instance, the victim was so young.

The EU Agenda for the Rights of the Child makes it clear that bullying must be prevented. In 2013 projects to prevent and combat bullying in schools were funded under the Commission's Daphne programme and in 2014 the scheme was extended to children in detention or in residential care.

In view of this:

Does the Commission intend to step up its efforts and develop an ad hoc support strategy for projects aimed at combating acts of bullying at school, especially where the most vulnerable, such as those with disabilities or members of minority groups, are being targeted?