Dying at 13, the fight against bullying

The suicide of Dinah Gonthier in Alsace in September 2021 and that of young Lucas in the Vosges in January 2023 deeply affected the French public and drew attention to school bullying, a collective phenomenon that seems increasingly uncontrollable. These tragic events led to the passing of a new law imposing heavy penalties on perpetrators of bullying, as well as the implementation of a national prevention plan aimed at all French schools. However, these measures have not eliminated cases of bullying, which remain alarmingly frequent in middle schools.

Today, some schools are making progress. The teaching team at Wintzenheim Middle School in Alsace is fighting daily to prevent bullying situations from escalating. Alan, Maël, and Charlotte share their experiences of how the bullying they endured was stopped. The school’s team has been trained in the Swedish “shared concern” method, adapted for France by Jean-Pierre Bellon. Bullies are summoned and encouraged to find a solution to the harassment of their peer. This approach works in 95% of cases. Some students, like Charlotte, even become anti-bullying ambassadors, ensuring that bullying is quickly identified. The team at a primary school in Sèvres, near Paris, is focusing on developing empathy and helping children articulate their emotions. They encourage students to resolve conflicts and frustrations using “clear messaging.” As a result, the children develop greater self-confidence and are better equipped for the challenges of middle school.

Bullying and intimidation can lead to school phobia and social isolation. In Metz and Paris, specialized organizations are working on prevention, providing victims with tools to cope, and helping them rebuild their lives. For those whose bullying stopped quickly or who felt supported from the outset, the experience may fade into the past. However, for others, like Julien and Savannah, the trauma is far from being erased; it will stay with them for life.

Film Info

Genre : Society, Documentary
Director : Eric Ellena
Production : French Connection Films et France Televisions
Year : 2024
Lenght : 52′
Languages : English, French
Broadcasters : France Televisions, Vosges Televisions
Partners : CNC, Vosges Televisions