AGDISTIS 2022-1-ES01-KA220-SCH-000087432

In contemporary European society, it is not uncommon for children to exhibit attitudes and behaviours that defy traditional gender norms assigned to their sex. These expressions of masculinity or femininity, known as non-normative gender behaviour, often fall outside the boundaries of societal expectations, challenging established stereotypes of what it means to be a man or a woman. The consequences of this non-conformity can be profound, particularly for young individuals, as they may face gender-based bullying both within and outside the school environment.

European and international institutions have highlighted the pressing issue of gender-based bullying, emphasizing its impact on the well-being and mental health of children who express non-normative gender behaviours. In a survey conducted by the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) in 2012, it was revealed that 91% of LGTB individuals in the EU reported witnessing negative comments and behaviours towards LGTB pupils at school. These experiences of discrimination and harassment can lead to severe consequences, as evidenced by the study "Homophobic bullying and suicide risk in lesbian, gay and transgender adolescents and young people," conducted by FELGTB/COGAM in 2012.

This study found that a significant percentage of LGTB students who had been bullied contemplated or attempted suicide, further emphasizing the critical need for intervention and support.

This pressing concern has led to the creation of the AGDISTIS project, an Erasmus+ initiative aimed at providing a comprehensive response to the issue of gender-based bullying and the support of non- normative gender behaviours. The project seeks to empower not only the victims but also the educators through the application of Emotional Intelligence solutions. Emotional Intelligence equips individuals with skills and competences such as empathy, assertiveness, self-confidence, tolerance, respect, and inclusion, all of which are pivotal in addressing the challenges posed by non-normative gender behaviours.

The AGDISTIS project addresses the needs of both the victims and the educators. It aspires to foster awareness in local educational communities across the project countries. The project also aims to provide training in Emotional Intelligence to teachers in local schools, equipping them with the resources needed to intervene effectively in cases of bullying based on non-normative behaviour.

The focus also extends to pupils who will receive training, enabling them to develop the skills and attitudes necessary to respect and embrace non-normative gender behaviours, thereby fostering a more inclusive and accepting environment within schools.

Recognizing the importance of early intervention, the project primarily targets primary school teachers and their students, families, and the entire educational community. Research highlights the crucial role of teachers in preventing the risks associated with gender-based bullying, emphasizing the need for appropriate methodologies and resources to address these challenges effectively. Furthermore, evidence suggests that disruptions related to non-normative gender behaviours tend to emerge during the early stages of primary education, making it essential to provide support and education during this critical period.

The AGDISTIS project seeks to address these challenges by utilizing Emotional Intelligence, a set of social and emotional skills that empower individuals to develop resilient and inclusive personalities.

Emotional Intelligence promotes an inclusive character that transcends cultural barriers and empowers individuals to achieve their full potential regardless of gender. Applied to primary education, Emotional Intelligence becomes a powerful tool for combating gender-based bullying and developing essential social and civic competences.

The outcomes of the AGDISTIS project are expected to include an "Encyclopaedia of Good Practices for Gender Behaviour", a "Non-Normative Gender Training Programme for Teachers", and a "Toolkit for Teachers." These resources will serve as invaluable tools in promoting inclusive education and fostering a culture of acceptance, diversity, and empathy among students and educators.

In conclusion, the AGDISTIS project embodies a commitment to addressing the pressing issue of gender-based bullying and supporting non-normative gender behaviours through the application of Emotional Intelligence. By raising awareness, providing training to teachers, and equipping students with the skills to embrace diversity, the project aims to create inclusive, respectful, and accepting school environments where all students, regardless of their gender expression, can thrive and develop into resilient, empowered individuals.

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