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Albanian children put violence and mental health at the top of their concerns

Albanian children put violence and mental health at the top of their concerns

Violence, bullying, and lack of mental health support are among the main concerns raised by children and adolescents during consultations for the drafting of the National Agenda for Children's Rights 2027–2030.

The document summarizes the results of consultations with 74 children and adolescents aged 13–18 from several areas of the country, who presented their priorities and concerns about public policies that directly affect their lives.

According to the analysis of the consultations, the topic that dominated the discussions was violence against children. Bullying was identified as the most widespread form of violence, which according to participants occurs in schools, communities and increasingly in the online environment.

The document highlights that many children continue to fail to report cases of violence. The main reasons identified are fear of prejudice, lack of faith that the situation will change, and lack of awareness of reporting mechanisms.

"Sometimes it is more difficult to ask for help than to face the problem," participants were quoted as saying during the consultations.

Children demanded not only punitive measures against perpetrators of violence, but also education about healthy relationships, emotional support, and preventive interventions.

One of the most discussed topics was mental health. According to the document, participants considered psychological support as an essential need for their well-being and development and called for an increase in the number of psychologists and social workers in schools and communities.

"When we have an emotional problem, we shouldn't feel like we're alone," says one of the messages included in the report.

The consultations also highlighted children's demand for more supportive schools, more sports and cultural activities, and safe spaces to discuss their concerns.

At the end of the process, the children themselves identified five main priorities for the period until 2030: real participation in decision-making, prevention of all forms of violence, more psychosocial support, quality education linked to well-being, and a safe digital environment.

Their closing message in the document is: "We want to live in an Albania where we feel heard, safe, supported and respected every day."/ Monitor

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