Deputy Prime Minister Atanas Zafirov has stated that a rise in violent incidents among minors is alarming society, a trend also observed in other European nations. Zafirov, who leads the Central Commission for Combating Antisocial Behavior of Minors and Juveniles, attributed this aggression to influences from parks, shopping malls, digital media, and video games. He explained that young people often mimic adult behavior, with some considering hooliganism a fashionable rejection of norms and authority.
In response, the official said the commission is prioritizing preventative measures, having directed local committees to create and execute municipal anti-violence plans. He reported that numerous regional meetings have been organized to discuss innovative prevention methods. So far in 2024, local initiatives have involved over 116,000 children and 5,000 parents through sports, arts, and volunteer programs like Peers Teach Peers. The commission is also developing a National Program for the Prevention of Violence with a horizon of 2026 and is collaborating with various state and non-profit organizations. Zafirov concluded that addressing the issue requires a broader systemic effort, citing inter-institutional challenges and low wages for workers in the field.
In response, the official said the commission is prioritizing preventative measures, having directed local committees to create and execute municipal anti-violence plans. He reported that numerous regional meetings have been organized to discuss innovative prevention methods. So far in 2024, local initiatives have involved over 116,000 children and 5,000 parents through sports, arts, and volunteer programs like Peers Teach Peers. The commission is also developing a National Program for the Prevention of Violence with a horizon of 2026 and is collaborating with various state and non-profit organizations. Zafirov concluded that addressing the issue requires a broader systemic effort, citing inter-institutional challenges and low wages for workers in the field.
