Violence against children can lead to anxiety, depression and even mental health disorders. The negative impact is profound, long-lasting and affects not only the child victim, but also their families, communities and the country in general, said Ilija Talev, UNICEF Moldova Deputy Representative. The phenomenon of bullying was debated on the parliamentary platform of the commission for culture, education, youth, sport and the media on March 2, IPN reports.

Ilija Talev said violence undermines all the investments in education and increases the economic costs of the children’s health and wellbeing, reducing the growth and prosperity potential. “Larger investments in inter-sector mechanisms are needed to solve the problem as we all will suffer if the problem is not addressed efficiently and urgently,” stated Ilija Talev.

A study conducted by the Ministry of Education, Culture and Research and UNICEF shows that 87% of the sixth-twelfth graders were affected by bullying as victims, witnesses or aggressors. The poll covered 2,337 students of a number of education institutions. The study also revealed that bullying remains unnoticed and is practically ignored by the administration of education institutions.

MP Maria Ciobanu, a member of the commission for culture, education, youth, sport and the media, said the responsibility for combating bullying should be borne by everyone and, if we want to grow a healthy generation, we should all become involved.

Viorica Dumbrăveanu, adviser to the Speaker of Parliament, noted that the defining of the forms of bullying will enable to clarify the phenomenon and the way in which the authorities can intervene to help the children.

Ombudswoman for children’s rights Maia Bănărescu stated that the education of children should be based on tolerance and respect for oneself.