Petr Jedlička: Attacks, depression, cyberbullying. The worsening climate in schools is a problem being addressed across Europe

Thursday, Jun 25, 2026

School violence is rising due to complex factors like social media and family issues; solutions require multi-layered approaches including safety measures, emotional support, and better teacher resources.

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[This is an automatically generated summary, for reference only]

The article discusses the escalating and complex issue of violence and behavioral problems in Czech schools, citing rising instances of verbal and physical aggression, as well as online stalking and abuse. While media coverage often focuses on dramatic incidents, the reality is multifaceted. Current systemic issues include underfunding, lack of personnel, and insufficient authority for school administrators to implement necessary preventative measures. Contributing factors are identified as broader societal trends, such as shifts in institutional trust, complex family dynamics, and the pervasive influence of social media, which can normalize or even reward aggressive behavior online.

While immediate security measures like increased monitoring are being implemented, experts argue that a comprehensive solution requires multi-layered approaches. Best practices from other European countries highlight the importance of continuous teacher training, establishing strong support networks (including psychologists and counselors), and improving communication between schools and families. Key recommendations include implementing clear behavioral rules, fostering empathy through education, and ensuring teachers have manageable workloads and adequate professional support. Ultimately, the text stresses that while political pressure is needed for systemic changes—such as regulating social media platforms—any improvement must start with creating a sense of safety and belonging within the school environment itself.


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