Empowering Youth to Combat Cyberbullying

Protection

As part of the ongoing WW2 Project: Empowered Communities to Fight Violence Against Women and Children, the Boys and Girls Network held its ninth session at Ali Hussien School. This initiative equips young students with the knowledge and skills to stand against gender-based violence, fostering a culture of awareness and action.

This session focused on cyberbullying—its forms, consequences, and prevention strategies. Students engaged in discussions about responsible digital behavior, the impact of online harassment, and the ethical and legal implications of cyberbullying. Through open dialogue, they reflected on their own experiences and explored ways to foster safer online spaces.

A key topic was the role of bystanders in cyberbullying:

“Bystanders have a big responsibility. If they see someone being bullied online and do nothing, they’re indirectly supporting the bully. Their silence can make the victim feel even more alone,” shared Fatima.

Another participant raised an important concern:

“People hesitate to step in because they fear becoming targets themselves. If a bully is already attacking someone, they might turn on anyone who speaks up.”

Recognizing these challenges, the group brainstormed safer ways to intervene. One student suggested:

“Instead of confronting the bully publicly, bystanders can support the victim privately by sending a message or reporting the incident to a trusted adult or the platform itself.”

Another participant reinforced the importance of reporting:

“Most social media platforms have tools to report cyberbullying. If enough people report it, the abusive content can be removed.”

The session concluded with a powerful takeaway: understanding the blurred lines between online and real-life identities and recognizing the risks of digital interactions. By raising awareness and promoting proactive responses, the Boys and Girls Network continues to empower young people to build safer, more supportive digital spaces for themselves and their peers.

 

 

 

 

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