Belgian broadcaster RTBF launched an anti-bullying initiative called HOPE ("Harcèlement, on s'y Oppose et on en Parle Ensemble", or in English "Harassment, we oppose it and talk about it together") at the Children's Museum in Ixelles on Monday.
The campaign is aimed at primary school students in French-speaking schools in Brussels and Wallonia, encouraging them to oppose bullying through fun activities and awareness efforts.
In Belgium's French-speaking schools, nearly one in three students has encountered school bullying, whether as a victim, witness, or perpetrator. In a video, young people shared how such behaviour deeply affects their schooling and personal development.
"School bullying is never acceptable. No behaviour should go unnoticed," stressed Francophone Education Minister Valérie Glatigny. She added that while schools alone cannot solve the problem, they reflect society. The minister highlighted that the School Climate Observatory, established by the French Community Government in 2023, provides tools to help teachers and administrators combat bullying.
Over 400 schools have joined the 'HOPE' initiative, which runs until 15 November. Students will discuss an anti-bullying charter and can paint four symbolic coloured dots on their hands. They are also encouraged to create and film "chains of hope."
The initiative is supported by popular Belgian singer and dancer Loïc Nottet. His song 'Danser', which focuses on his experiences with bullying, serves as the campaign anthem. Other personalities involved include Héléna Bailly, Thalya Culot, and Lanna De Palmaert.
A programme dedicated to the theme will air on public service channels and the Auvio platform. The objective is to educate younger audiences, with short formats also shared on TikTok.
