Youth violence and digital aggression addressed in Albania and North Macedonia

Discussions in Albania and North Macedonia have highlighted the rising impact of digital violence and peer aggression among youth. In Albania, community meetings in Gjirokastër and Tepelë emphasized how digital aggression—including online insults, threats, and the unauthorized sharing of media—is fueling school bullying. A UNICEF study in Albania revealed that one in five young people has experienced online harassment, with approximately 85% of children rarely or never discussing such abuse with their parents.

In North Macedonia, a debate held at Villa Biljana in Ohrid addressed peer violence and vandalism. President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova and Minister of Education Vesna Janevska stressed the importance of proactive prevention and creating safe school environments. Participants emphasized that digital communication should not replace direct human connection and called for a shift in mentality to combat aggression through early education and active social engagement.