Anti-bullying campaigns launch in Belgium and the Netherlands

Anti-bullying initiatives are gaining momentum in the Netherlands and Belgium through various awareness campaigns and educational resources.

In Belgium, Ketnet and the Flemish network ‘Kies Kleur Tegen Pesten’ have launched the ‘STIP IT’ campaign. Running until October 9, the initiative encourages schools and youth movements to use four dots on the hand as a symbol against bullying. The campaign includes a new program titled ‘STIP IT: Kintsugi’, where presenter Lee Arrendell discusses the impact of bullying with children, using the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery as a metaphor for resilience. The project has received support from figures such as Queen Mathilde and Toby Alderweireld.

In the Netherlands, the ‘Week tegen Pesten’ (Week Against Bullying) from September 21 to 25 provides guidance for parents dealing with bullying, particularly in digital group chats. Experts advise parents to monitor behavioral changes, engage in open dialogue with their children, and coordinate with school mentors or designated contact persons to ensure social safety and documented follow-up actions.