Israel Declares National Emergency Over Child Bullying and Social Exclusion

President Isaac Herzog has declared a "national emergency" in response to alarming statistics indicating that one in three children and teenagers in Israel experience social exclusion or bullying. A significant portion, one-third, have been exposed to violence. In response, a broad, unprecedented national initiative has been launched to combat these issues, spearheaded by the National Forum for Combating Boycotts and Bullying, operating under the auspices of the President's Residence.

This initiative unites public sector ministries, local authorities, civil society organizations, and the business sector. The goal is to establish a clear boundary against boycotts, bullying, and violence, aiming to shift societal discourse, norms, and behavior. President Herzog emphasized the urgency, stating, "We are in a national emergency and I call on every person in Israel to take part in the national effort to combat boycotts and bullying among children and youth." He highlighted the establishment of the forum as a crucial step to streamline responses and eradicate the phenomenon.

Eyal Shviki, Director General of the President's Residence and chairman of the forum, described the effort as a "civilian call to duty," stressing collective responsibility. He noted that the "shocking data" necessitates a comprehensive fight to bring about deep change in Israeli culture. The forum includes professionals from the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Welfare, Ministry of National Security, local government, national parent and student councils, pre-military academies, youth movements, and various NGOs.

The campaign, themed "A Red Line Against Boycotts and Bullying," will launch publicly after the school year begins. It aims to engage bystanders, encouraging them to intervene positively when they witness bullying or exclusion, rather than remaining indifferent. The campaign will reach children, teens, and parents through schools, social media, media outlets, transportation, shopping centers, and public spaces. A new website, "It's On Us," has been created to centralize resources and guidance for children, teens, parents, and educators dealing with these issues.

The initiative seeks to foster a generation that understands that harming others is not entertainment, indifference is not acceptable, seeking help is not weakness, and supporting someone alone is leadership. Success will be measured not only by a reduction in bullying incidents but also by the lessons learned about caring, responsibility, and belonging.