Should Police and Courts Step in to Tackle School Bullying in Singapore?

School bullying remains a pressing issue in Singapore, leading many to wonder if higher authorities, like the police or courts, should intervene. At GJC Law, our criminal representation lawyers often provide guidance on the legal options available, the responsibilities of schools and parents, and whether dedicated anti-bullying laws might enhance protection for students.

Here’s our perspective on the current state of school bullying and the steps that can be taken.

Can Victims of School Bullying Seek Protection Under POHA?

Singapore’s Protection from Harassment Act (POHA) provides a pathway for individuals facing harassment, including bullying. Under Section 3 of POHA, causing intentional harassment, alarm, or distress to another person is an offense, regardless of age.

We have handled cases where parents sought Protection Orders for their children against other students, acting on their behalf to address bullying incidents legally. This flexibility makes POHA an effective tool for addressing harassment at any age.

“We courage parents to consider less formal resolutions before pursuing legal action. In many cases, notifying the bully’s parents and the school may help resolve the matter without escalating it to authorities.”

Addressing Bullying Through School and Parental Involvement

While we’re equipped to handle school bullying cases under POHA, our approach generally involves seeking resolution within the school or family setting before involving legal measures. The first step is usually to engage the bully’s parents and alert the school, giving them a chance to address the issue.

In certain instances, we may recommend sending a Cease and Desist letter to the bully’s parents, encouraging them to address the situation and even suggesting counseling as a productive measure. This often de-escalates the situation and avoids police or court involvement, which can be beneficial, especially when students may still encounter one another daily in school.

Should Police and Courts Intervene Directly in Bullying Cases?

Understandably, some feel that stronger measures are needed if schools aren’t effectively managing bullying cases. However, we advise a cautious approach. Schools play a vital role in promoting a supportive environment, and with trained counselors and teachers intervening early, many bullying incidents can be managed at the school level.

When schools need additional support, mediation can be a useful step before court intervention. We have facilitated mediation between families, with parents representing their children, which often leads to positive outcomes that foster understanding and de-escalate tensions without formal legal action.

What Options Do Parents Have When Schools Fall Short?

If schools seem unable to fully address bullying, parents do have options, which we are equipped to guide them through. For instance, a formal Letter of Demand can put the bully’s parents on notice, detailing the bullying and its impact. This approach can sometimes be enough to prompt action from the other family.

In cases where legal intervention is unavoidable, we assist families in pursuing Protection Orders to ensure their child’s safety. However, we recognize the importance of resolving these issues with minimal disruption to the school environment.

Should Singapore Implement Specific Anti-Bullying Laws?

While POHA provides a general framework, there is a case for considering more targeted anti-bullying laws. An anti-bullying Act could specifically define different forms of bullying—physical, emotional, and psychological—and cover various channels, including cyberbullying. A dedicated law could also include penalties tailored to young offenders, focusing on rehabilitative support and community programs that help address bullying behavior.

Proactive Steps Schools Can Take to Combat Bullying

In our experience, effective anti-bullying measures at the school level can be instrumental in preventing further incidents. We recommend that schools consider:

• Reassigning Classes: Separating the bully and the victim to reduce contact.
• Creating Supervised Areas: Ensuring students in conflict are monitored during school hours.
• Regular Communication with Parents: Keeping open lines of communication with parents to address any concerns promptly.
• Hiring Trained Counselors: Bringing in professionals skilled in handling youth behavior to support students proactively.

Implementing these steps can create a safer environment within schools, often preventing the need for legal action.

Moving Forward: A United Approach Against Bullying

At GJC Law, we believe addressing school bullying requires a combined effort from parents, educators, and legal professionals. While POHA provides protection, Singapore might benefit from dedicated anti-bullying laws that offer more clarity and tailored interventions for school-aged children.

Ultimately, our goal is to create a culture of respect and safety in schools, where students can thrive without fear of bullying. By working together and using available resources, we can foster a school environment that prioritizes students’ well-being and development.

Read more: Your Child and The Law