Racketeering, or extortion, is the most common and criminalized form of violence in educational institutions. This phenomenon manifests itself in the dominance of older or stronger students who force younger ones to pay "tribute" in the form of money, food, or valuables. Given that racketeering falls under the article "Extortion" of the Criminal Code of Kyrgyzstan, its investigation is within the competence of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. However, due to fear among children and the hidden nature of these crimes, law enforcement agencies most often only hear about high-profile cases involving serious bodily harm.
Bullying includes both psychological and physical violence aimed at humiliating and isolating the victim. It can manifest in the form of verbal aggression (insults, nicknames), social isolation (boycotts, rumors), property damage, and physical violence (beatings, shoving).
Among the new forms of violence, cyberbullying stands out, which is carried out through online platforms. Participants in the harassment use fake accounts, hack profiles, spread threats, and compromising materials, leading to the rapid dissemination of information both within and outside the school.
It is also important to note gender-based violence, which includes sexualized comments, harassment, and unwanted touching, coming from both peers and teachers. Girls and adolescents who do not conform to traditional gender norms are particularly vulnerable.
The study was conducted from August to October 2025 in 50 public schools across the country and confirms that the issue of school violence remains relevant and widespread.
The authors of the study emphasized that it is not representative of all educational institutions; however, the data obtained can help fill gaps in information about violence in educational institutions in Kyrgyzstan.
