Teen's vision loss from bullying inspires prevention bill in Argentina

Florencia Merino, now 26, is advocating for a national bill to combat bullying and cyberbullying after losing vision in her right eye at age 13 due to an unprovoked attack by a classmate. The incident, which occurred in 2013, resulted in a 13-millimeter cut to her eyeball and optic nerve damage, leaving her permanently blind in that eye.

Merino endured months of bullying at her private school before the physical assault. Despite reporting the harassment, the school failed to intervene effectively. The bullying continued digitally after the incident, with anonymous messages targeting her and accusing her of damaging the school's reputation. She describes the experience as living through "hell."

“

No

Her story has now inspired the "Florencia Law," a bill presented in Argentina's Congress. The legislation aims to establish a National System for the Prevention, Early Detection, and Comprehensive Approach to Bullying, Cyberbullying, and Digital Violence against children and adolescents.

The proposed law includes provisions for schools to implement clear protocols for addressing harassment and digital violence. It also requires mandatory training for teachers and school administrators on identifying and responding to such issues. Merino, who is currently completing her law degree, hopes the bill will prevent other children from suffering similar experiences.

“

Te vi