The Enduring Menace of Bullying>

The article explores the pervasive and escalating nature of bullying, starting from minor schoolyard incidents to severe manifestations in global politics and digital spaces. It highlights how bullies evolve into oppressive figures, from autocratic leaders to nations imposing unfair trade sanctions. Bullying is depicted as a universal issue that spans cultural, political, and religious divides, resulting in various forms of violence and oppression, often targeting the most vulnerable groups like indigenous people, minorities, and small nations. The piece underscores the psychological drivers of bullies, such as perceived threats and a desire for power, and the dire consequences of cyberbullying in the digital age, illustrated by the tragic suicide of activist A. Rajeswary. While victims can sometimes fend off bullies through mental resilience and support from loved ones, the article acknowledges that organized bullies backed by governments or crime syndicates can escalate their terror. It concludes with a call for solidarity and resistance against bullies, drawing inspiration from Nelson Mandela’s triumphant struggle against apartheid.