Bullying and Cyberbullying: the new legislative decree focuses on prevention, listening and responsibility

The phenomenon of bullying and, increasingly, cyberbullying, continues to represent one of the most urgent challenges in terms of child protection in Italy. To respond effectively and systemically to this social emergency, the Government has prepared a new legislative decree, implementing the delegation provided for by Law no. 70 of 17 May 2024.
📌 The most relevant innovations of the decree
The text, divided into five articles, introduces concrete and coordinated measures, aimed at both the prevention and the direct contrast of acts harmful to the dignity and psychophysical integrity of minors.

🔹 Strengthening of the “Childhood Emergency 114” number
The first article strengthens the public service 114, already active 24 hours a day throughout the country, formally extending its functions to the management of bullying and cyberbullying cases. The service will offer:
* first-level psychological and legal assistance, including to family members and people emotionally close to the victims;
* an interactive digital platform, with geolocation and instant messaging tools, respecting privacy regulations;
* a direct connection with public safety authorities in serious cases.
114 thus becomes not just a number to call, but an integrated access point to the protection network for minors.

🔹 Biennial monitoring by ISTAT
Article 2 establishes a structured system of data collection and analysis, with biennial statistical surveys conducted by ISTAT:
* Analysis of the school and digital contexts in which the phenomenon occurs.
* Assessment of risk factors and psychological consequences.
* Submission to Parliament, by 31 December 2026, of a detailed report on the effectiveness of the measures adopted.

🔹 More responsible parents: changes to the Communications Code
Article 3 introduces a significant innovation: contracts with digital service providers must contain an explicit reference to art. 2048 of the Civil Code, clarifying the responsibility of parents for damages caused online by minor children.

🔹 Awareness campaigns
The decree provides that the Presidency of the Council, in coordination with the Ministry of Education, promotes institutional communication campaigns, aimed at students and families, on the conscious use of the Internet and the risks associated with digital violence.

🔹 No additional burden for the State
All measures will be financed without new or increased burdens on public finances, thanks to a rationalisation of existing resources and efficient management of the 114 service.

🎯 Why it's important
This decree represents a concrete and structured step towards greater protection of minors in an increasingly digitalized society, where violence often creeps invisibly behind a screen. The strengthening of the number 114, the obligation to inform families, and preventive action in schools are key tools for a cultural change.