Every year, on the first Thursday of November, the world observes the International Day against Violence and Bullying at School to raise awareness of the importance of intensifying international efforts to curb this phenomenon in school and digital environments. On this occasion, the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) stresses that combating bullying is a collective responsibility requiring concerted efforts by government bodies, educational institutions, families and civil society, as well as greater awareness among children and young people of the risks posed by such behavior and its psychological, social and educational consequences.

In this context, ICESCO attaches particular importance to combating bullying, raising awareness of its harmful effects, protecting students, promoting their mental health, and fostering positive behavior within and beyond educational institutions. The Organization advances these goals through several programs and projects, most notably the StopBully Program, supervised by ICESCO’s Social and Human Sciences Sector. The program provides practical tools to help children, families, teachers and education professionals prevent bullying and respond effectively to incidents.

In the same vein, ICESCO, in partnership with the Ministry of Youth, Culture and Communication of the Kingdom of Morocco, published the interactive graphic story, “Show Me Your Smile,” in the Organization’s three official languages: Arabic, English and French. ICESCO also produced and launched the animated film, “Show Me Your Smile,” during the International Children’s and Youth Book Fair in Casablanca, with the participation of 50 children. The film explains the phenomenon of bullying and encourages children to share their experiences.

ICESCO also organized a symposium entitled, “Addressing the Faces of Bullying: From Schoolyards to Digital Spaces,” bringing together around 70 children and a group of experts and specialists in education and psychology. It also held seven interactive workshops led by specialists, benefiting 770 children.

These efforts form part of ICESCO’s strategic vision, which places child protection, mental health and well-being at the heart of its priorities. They aim to build safe and cohesive societies and provide educational environments that uphold children’s dignity and rights across the countries of the Islamic world.