Former German actor Carsten Stahl visited Luxembourg on Wednesday as part of a series of anti-bullying prevention seminars for school staff.
Over 10 years ago, after his own son became a victim of bullying at school, Stahl made the decision to use his public profile to raise awareness about this pressing issue. Since then, he has travelled across Germany and now to Luxembourg, working to sensitise both young people and educators alike.
Stahl believes that his own childhood and adolescence give him a unique ability to connect with young people in ways that teaching staff often cannot. “I am a victim, perpetrator, and accomplice, and I was even criminal. I know what I’m talking about because I’ve experienced it myself”, Stahl shared.
One of Stahl’s greatest concerns is the impact of digital development on bullying. Whereas bullying once primarily involved physical confrontations, it now largely occurs through social media.
Stahl pointed out that the cases of bullying are still on the rise, and he believes there needs to be a more comprehensive preventative approach. Schools, he insists, should seek additional support when necessary. “I can only tell the schools: accept help, use the resources available, and if they don’t work, bring in others. I don’t blame any school for having these societal problems, but how they handle them is crucial”, he argues.
Stahl emphasised that investing in prevention is essential for the well-being of children and adolescents. His key message: teach children mutual respect and tolerance.
