Peer violence among children and youth is an increasingly prevalent problem, and it is most often recognized only once it has already escalated. Although legal and institutional mechanisms exist, in practice they are usually activated only after violence has occurred, while preventive approaches remain underdeveloped and inconsistent.

The Youth Resource Center Tuzla is therefore launching an initiative that focuses precisely on what is often missing – recognizing the early signs of violence and responding in a timely manner.

Through work with students, parents, and schools, as well as cooperation with institutions, the goal is to strengthen local preventive mechanisms and establish clearer procedures for handling situations that precede violence. Special focus will be placed on the development and testing of practical tools and manuals that will help both children and adults more easily recognize the problem and know how to respond.

As part of this initiative, educational sessions in schools, public events, and citizen forums are planned, along with discussions with institutional representatives, all aimed at improving cooperation and creating sustainable solutions at the local level.

“Behind every case of peer violence is a child who did not receive support in time. With this initiative, we want to send a clear message: violence is not the solution, but timely response is. Children must know who they can turn to, and adults must be ready to listen to them.” – Mirela Biković Blagovčanin, Project PR

The activities will be carried out in Tuzla over a period of nine months and will include primary school students, parents, educational institutions, and relevant authorities.

Schools, parents, and the community on the same side – for the prevention of peer violence.