Empower to React. Connect to Protect

Few groups spend as much time online, or take it as much for granted, as young people. Social media, gaming and messaging apps are not an add-on for them; they are part of everyday life. That is also what makes them especially vulnerable. Because of their age and stage of development, they are particularly exposed to violence that happens through digital platforms: hate speech, cyberbullying, image-based sexual abuse, cybergrooming and radicalisation. These experiences reach beyond the digital space, and those affected often don’t know who to turn to. The project supports young people and the adults who work with them. It teaches how to recognise digital violence and how to respond appropriately.

Empower to React

Adults are responsible for assessing violence, making protection possible and responding appropriately. The project is therefore aimed specifically at professionals: teachers, school social workers, youth workers, counselling services and associations. They are in direct contact with young people and are often the first point of contact when something happens. Around 150 students contributed their experiences and voiced their needs.

The following tools have been developed so far:

• digital-violence.info: Together with Tech Against Violence, the Public Discourse Foundation developed Switzerland’s first information platform on digital violence. A dedicated section covers digital violence in young people’s lives, from hate speech to radicalisation. It sets out options for action, lists where to get help and explains the legal situation.
• Guide for Athletes: Developed with Swiss Olympic, this guide in German and French is for athletes, especially young athletes, who are attacked online. It answers three questions: What should I do? Who should I tell? Where can I get help?
• Teaching materials: myMoment, the online writing platform for students in German-speaking Switzerland, offers exercises and videos on hate speech.

Connect to Protect

We bring together key players from research, education, politics, the media and civil society to develop lasting protective mechanisms and effective prevention strategies. Working with the cantons will be the focus of the project’s second year, 2027.

For questions or if you are interested in working with us: contact@public-discourse.org

Workshops for Professionals

The Public Discourse Foundation offers workshops for professionals on digital violence in young people’s lives. Participants learn to recognise digital violence, take action when it happens and bring in the right services. Enquiries: contact@public-discourse.org