Netherlands observes Week Against Bullying with regional initiatives

The Lekstroom region in the Netherlands is observing ‘Week Tegen Pesten’ (Week Against Bullying) from September 21 to 25. Schools and various organizations are participating to raise awareness about the consequences of bullying and the importance of respectful interaction.

In Nieuwegein, the Movactor foundation has launched the ‘Complimentos’ campaign. This initiative encourages students to write compliments to one another using cards to foster positive social connections. Reiza Peterse of Movactor noted that bullying is evolving, with the internet allowing for increased anonymity and consequences-free harassment.

In Waalwijk, local educator Marloes van Tetering provides training to help children build resilience and stand up for themselves. Through group discussions and exercises, children learn to navigate social pressures, such as exclusion and online bullying, to prepare them for the transition to secondary school.