Italian teen school violence surge

The 2025 ESPAD Italy survey, released in July 2026, confirmed that 43.4% of students aged 15‑19 reported taking part in or being victim of at least one violent incident at school, with 49.8% of boys and 37.2% of girls affected. Fights remain the most common form of aggression, while assaults on teachers and weapon‑related extortion have nearly tripled since 2018. A growing digital component is evident: 11% of respondents said they had watched violent episodes filmed and shared online, a figure that has doubled in seven years. The study links violent behaviour to strained relationships with teachers, peers or families and to substance use, and highlights protective factors such as regular reading and positive parental dialogue. Researchers and the National Coordination of Teachers for Human Rights have again urged Education Minister Giuseppe Valditara to create a permanent national governance system that monitors school relational climates, provides ongoing socio‑emotional and digital‑education training for teachers, and coordinates support among schools, families and territorial services. The data and policy push reinforce concerns about a widening epidemic of adolescent violence in Italian schools and the need for systematic, long‑term interventions.