Šćekić: Violence is never a solution, it does not bring strength, it leaves consequences for both those who suffer it and those who commit it

Minister of Sports and Youth and President of the Council for Children's Rights Dragoslav Šćekić announced today that violence is never a solution and that it does not bring strength, but rather leaves consequences for both those who suffer it and those who commit it.

"On behalf of the Ministry of Sports and Youth and the Council for the Rights of the Child, I would like to express my deep concern about the increasingly frequent cases of juvenile violence, which, unfortunately, occur in schoolyards, classrooms and their immediate surroundings. Of particular concern is the fact that social networks are becoming a space for the rapid spread of footage of physical and verbal violence every day, including the disturbing scenes that have been recorded in Pljevlja and Budva these days, which are instantly going viral. Such actions are not just isolated incidents, but a serious social problem that requires a joint and decisive response from the entire society. Parents, society and institutions have a key role in supporting children, creating a safe environment and nurturing healthy values," Šćekić emphasized in a statement submitted by the Ministry of Sports and Youth.

He added that as president of the Council for Children's Rights, he initiated a series of activities aimed at strengthening the protection of children and youth.

"Last year, at the initiative of the Council, an important Analysis of the Situation and Proposal of Measures for Combating Violence and Vandalism in Schools was adopted, which represents a key step in a systemic approach to violence prevention. Also, as part of continuous activities, a thematic session dedicated to peer violence was organized, and we plan to hold it again during October, in order to further discuss this important issue and consider preventive measures. We are especially addressing young people - violence is never a solution. It does not bring strength, but leaves consequences for both those who suffer it and those who commit it. The right path is mutual respect, solidarity and the development of healthy values ​​through sports, education and joint activities," said Šćekić.

He stressed that the Ministry of Sports and Youth, in cooperation with the Council and other partners, continues to invest in programs that encourage young people to develop a culture of dialogue, tolerance and non-violent behavior, and to spend their free time in a quality way in a healthy environment.

"Together we are building a society in which schools and playgrounds are places of knowledge, friendship and play, not violence," said Šćekić.