In a Saturday address to approximately 2,000 Italian educators and parents at the Vatican, Pope Francis issued a strong condemnation of bullying, arguing that it cultivates a culture of conflict rather than peace. He directly linked schoolyard aggression to larger societal issues, asserting that bullying actively prepares students for war instead of fostering the peaceful coexistence he advocates for.
The Pope’s message emphasized the critical role of educators in combating bullying, both within the school environment and within the homes of their students. He implored the audience to commit themselves to actively fighting against this pervasive problem. While acknowledging and praising the positive work schools are doing to promote peace through their curricula and fostering creativity among children, he stressed the stark contrast between these efforts and the destructive reality of bullying. His words were unequivocal: “But if, at school, you wage war among yourselves or engage in bullying, you are preparing for war, not for peace.”
Finally, Pope Francis underscored the importance of open communication and dialogue within families, highlighting its essential role in personal growth and development. He posited that fostering dialogue is crucial not only for individual flourishing but also for building a more just and harmonious society.