The Anti-Bullying Movement Series (ABMS), funded by Erasmus+, brought together six countries and over 300 participants to combat bullying through creativity and culture. With a grant of €211,033, this innovative project ran from June 2021 to June 2023, equipping educators, youth workers, and artists with tools to disrupt bullying and foster inclusion.
Why the Project Was Needed
Bullying disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, leaving educators and support staff feeling unprepared to address it effectively. ABMS aimed to close this gap by offering practical training, creative solutions, and policy advocacy to tackle bullying head-on.
The project focused on empowering groups at higher risk of exclusion, such as:
- Rural and remote populations
- LGBTQIA2S+ individuals
- Refugees and newcomers
- Ethnic and linguistic minorities
- People with diverse abilities, including mental health challenges
Key Objectives and Activities
The overarching goal of ABMS was to equip participants with the skills and knowledge to create safer spaces for at-risk youth. This was achieved through:
- Learning, Teaching, and Training Events (LTTs):
- Seven LTTs hosted across partner countries provided hands-on workshops, field trips, and creative classes.
- Participants collaborated with local organizations, practiced anti-bullying techniques, and attended performances advocating for inclusion.
- Policy Paper Publication:
- A comprehensive policy paper was developed to serve as a long-term resource for participants and organizations.
- It enables grassroots advocacy and supports systemic changes to address bullying.
Project Impact
The results of ABMS highlight its success:
- 321 Participants from Europe and beyond, 86% of whom were from underrepresented groups.
- 35 Training Days (5 online and 30 in person) focused on skill-building and creative collaboration.
- Five Festival Days celebrating inclusion and anti-bullying efforts.
- A widely shared Policy Paper and Impact Snapshot documenting best practices and results.
ABMS fostered international collaboration, offering participants tools to disrupt bullying and create inclusive environments. Beyond the EU, the project reached global audiences, with participants from North America, Asia, and neighboring European countries.
A Legacy of Inclusion
The Anti-Bullying Movement Series proves that art and culture are powerful tools for social change. By equipping educators and youth workers with creative strategies, ABMS has left a lasting impact on communities, promoting equity and inclusion.
To learn more about this groundbreaking initiative, visit the official project website. Together, we can continue to advocate for a world without bullying. 🌟
