New strategy to combat youth violence

The government has unveiled an ambitious plan to tackle teen violence, aiming to address key issues such as domestic violence, bullying, cyberbullying, and juvenile delinquency.

The strategy, developed by a committee of experts, proposes a broad set of measures and involves multiple ministries, including those of Education, Social Cohesion, and Justice.

According to Apostolos Lakasas's article for Kathimerini, the 160 proposed actions span a wide range of sectors and are intended to be implemented in phases, with key goals set for 2026, 2028 and 2030. One significant recommendation is the introduction of stricter regulations on social media access in and around schools.

The Education Ministry is encouraged to collaborate with mobile network providers to weaken signal strength and reduce students’ access to social media during school hours. Additionally, the strategy calls for adjustments to the school curriculum to address bullying, as well as the recruitment of more psychologists and social workers in schools.

At the heart of the national strategy is the role of the family, with numerous programs aimed at supporting parents and caregivers in managing domestic violence. 

The support systems are seen as essential for breaking cycles of violence and ensuring that young people have a stable and supportive environment in which to thrive.

Another major element of the plan is the improvement of community-based programs to combat violence in public spaces, including through partnerships with local governments, sports organizations, and influencers.

The committee’s report emphasizes the importance of coordinated efforts across nine ministries and various societal actors to ensure the effective implementation of these measures. This comprehensive strategy represents a major step in safeguarding Greece’s youth and promoting safer environments for children and families. 

The strategy also emphasizes the importance of supporting families, particularly those in at-risk communities, by providing access to resources such as counseling and financial aid.