LATINA – The city of Latina has been rocked by recent incidents of youth bullying, highlighting a serious and growing problem that requires urgent action from the community and local authorities. Two brutal attacks on teenagers on Saturday afternoon highlighted the vulnerability of young people and the lack of intervention by witnesses.
Before the attack suffered by a 14-year-old boy, surrounded and beaten by a group of bullies, another young girl of the same age was the victim of an attack in the city centre. A bully grabbed her, beat her and pushed her to the ground, while other members of a baby gang surrounded her, actively participating in the violent act. The mother of the attacked girl expressed dismay and frustration at the lack of help from those who were present: “It was daytime, no one intervened”, she declared, reflecting the feeling of helplessness and fear that many parents and young people are experiencing.
The mother’s story is dramatic: “My daughter was in Piazzale dei Bonificatori and was talking to two friends when
they attacked her. A little girl grabbed her from behind and started hitting her, then pushed her to the ground and climbed on top of her to hit her again. Other young people also approached and kicked her in the ribs. There were many of them, she says she saw at least thirty kids around. But the worst thing is that it was only 6pm, it was still daylight, but no one intervened. One of her friends helped her escape and take refuge in a bar. When she came home she didn’t tell us anything about what had happened to her, but I knew something was wrong and I insisted. She told me everything, but she was terrified, she begged us not to report because she is afraid that something could happen to us. This is incredible, every evening a teenager is attacked. The police should guard the center and intervene when a group of young people forms because otherwise there is no solution to such violence. Also because from what we know many of these bullies are not even 14 years old.”
On the occasion of provincial committee for public order and safety the prefect Maurizio Falco has announced his intention to strengthen prevention services intervening in schools and families to identify bullies.
The fear of reporting is another worrying aspect of this situation. Many parents and victims of bullying may hesitate to report such incidents for fear of retaliation or a lack of trust in the youth justice system. This reticence to report can further fuel the problem, allowing bullies to continue to operate undisturbed.
Bullying among adolescents is a complex phenomenon that must be addressed with a complete and inclusive strategy. It is essential to involve schools, families and local institutions to create a safe and welcoming environment for young people. Schools should implement anti-bullying programs and promote awareness among students about the consequences of aggressive behavior.
Local authorities must intensify surveillance and ensure rapid intervention in the event of bullying incidents. The presence of vigilantes in places frequented by young people can deter bullies and provide greater safety for adolescents.
Furthermore, it is essential to raise public awareness of the problem of youth bullying and encourage a culture of respect and empathy among young people. Collaboration between the community, institutions and non-governmental organizations can play a crucial role in combating bullying and promoting a positive environment for all.
Tackling bullying requires commitment and determination from everyone. It is everyone’s responsibility to ensure that young people can grow up in a safe and respectful environment, free from fear and violence. The recent series of attacks in Latina must be a wake-up call for the need to act with urgency and determination against bullying, thus protecting the future and well-being of our children.
