Bullying in schools is more than just a personal struggle—it’s a systemic issue that threatens students' well-being, disrupts their education, and fuels early leaving from education and training. Research shows that bullying significantly increases the likelihood of students dropping out, cutting short their opportunities and limiting their future prospects in education and work. By tackling bullying head-on, Cedefop’s work aims to create inclusive learning environments where every student can grow, succeed, and feel safe.
Bullying affects millions of students worldwide. According to UNESCO, one in three students experiences bullying, and one in ten is a victim of cyberbullying. In Europe, the challenge remains critical: only half of EU Member States have national policies to combat bullying, and even fewer have targeted frameworks for cyberbullying.
The consequences extend far beyond the schoolyard. Research consistently shows that bullying increases the risk of dropping out. Right now, one in ten students in Europe abandon their studies before completing upper secondary education. The impact is long-lasting - early leavers face higher unemployment, precarious jobs, social exclusion, and reduced opportunities for further education, with many falling into the NEET (not in employment, education, or training) category. Without action, these cycles of disadvantage and poverty are going to persist.
The EU recognises school bullying and early leaving as urgent issues, driving initiatives like the Council Recommendation on Pathways to School Success and the European Commission’s guidelines on mental health and well-being in schools. Efforts to combat hate speech and cyberbullying are also gaining traction. Yet, important gaps remain. A stronger, unified approach is needed—one that unites educators, policy-makers, and communities to tackle the root causes of bullying and lasting impact of school violence.
Cedefop’s response: research, action, and collaboration
Addressing these challenges requires evidence-based strategies and collaboration. Cedefop has developed interactive online toolkits and networks to help prevent and counteract early leaving from education and training, and create safer learning spaces for all students.
VET Toolkit for Tackling Early Leaving.
A resource designed for policy-makers and practitioners to identify risk factors for early school leaving and implement evidence-based strategies, with vocational education and training (VET) at the forefront. The toolkit emphasises the vital role of tackling bullying and violence to support students at risk of disengagement.
VET Toolkit for Empowering NEETs.
Focused on re-engaging young people who have left education, this toolkit provides practical solutions through VET to break down the social and psychological barriers that prevent NEETs from participating in employment, education, or training.
European Network of Ambassadors.
A dynamic network of more than 100 professions that promotes peer learning and the exchange of best practices in promoting inclusion in VET across Europe.
European survey supporting VET teachers’ professional development and well-being
Teachers are often on the frontlines of addressing bullying and violence in schools, yet their own well-being is frequently overlooked. Studies indicate that 80% of teachers worldwide experience violence, leading to burnout and job dissatisfaction. The upcoming Cedefop European VET Teachers Survey (EVTS) will provide critical insights into how teachers can be better equipped to address bullying, foster safe learning environments, and support students.
Beyond the classroom: a shared responsibility
Bullying extends beyond schools—it’s a societal challenge requiring a systemic response. Lasting solutions demand collaboration among educators, parents, social workers, and policy-makers to create safe, inclusive learning environments.
Tackling bullying and early leaving together is key to breaking cycles of exclusion and ensuring no student is left behind.
Apply here to Join Cedefop’s network of ambassadors to promote inclusion across Europe.