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By: Justoria Marie Borja
Koror, Palau – As digital connectivity continues to expand in Palau, a troubling issue has also emerged: cyberbullying. This modern form of harassment has quickly taken root on social media platforms such as TikTok and Facebook, targeting young people and adults alike. With no specific laws to address the issue, the impact of cyberbullying is spreading unchecked, causing great concern across the island nation.
In 2020, a bill was introduced in the Senate to criminalize cyberbullying and the unauthorized sharing of explicit images. The bill sought to define cyberbullying as the use of electronic communications to intimidate, torment, or harm another person. Despite the comprehensive approach proposed by the bill, it failed to pass, leaving a legislative gap that continues to affect vulnerable groups.
The situation is exacerbated by the anonymity of social media platforms, where bullies can harass others without fear of retaliation. These incidents are not isolated, and they can go viral, spreading harmful content to a wider audience almost instantly. The psychological impact of such widespread exposure can be devastating, causing victims to suffer severe emotional distress.
Ribka Kintaro Kanai, Program Manager at the Community Mentoring Center in the Department of Behavioral Health, has been at the forefront of addressing this issue. In a podcast about cyberbullying last year, she highlighted the difference between traditional bullying and cyberbullying, noting that while traditional bullying is often confined to schools and small communities, cyberbullying has the potential to reach a global audience. “Cyberbullying can spread five to ten times faster than face-to-face bullying due to the accessibility of digital platforms, making it much more dangerous,” Kanai explained.
Palau only started introducing fiber-optic internet five years ago, and coupled with the growing popularity of smartphones among young people, cyberbullying has become a new and common threat. “It’s a new challenge for us, and unfortunately, we don’t have laws to address it yet,” Kanai said. Parents are now more willing to allow their children to use digital devices, but they may be unknowingly exposing their children to this risk.
The Department of Behavioral Health’s Prevention Division has been proactive in addressing this issue, conducting awareness campaigns in schools across the country. These initiatives are designed to educate students about the dangers of both traditional and cyberbullying, emphasizing the importance of empathy, kindness, and the potential long-term effects of these harmful behaviors.
Kanai stressed that continued dialogue and community engagement are needed to address this growing problem. Support systems are in place in all Palau schools, whether through counselors or the Palau High School Youth Center, which is open to students from across the island.
775-TALK is a lifeline for those who are being bullied or simply need someone to talk to. The service is anonymous, ensuring individuals can seek help without fear of being exposed or judged.
However, prevention remains the most effective tool. Parents, teachers and community members must work together to create an environment where bullying of any kind is not tolerated. Communicating openly with children about their online activities, encouraging them to pursue hobbies and interests that build confidence, and modeling respectful behavior are all key steps in building resilience and understanding.
Kanai also stressed the importance of addressing the root causes of bullying. “We should intervene when we see bullying, but we also need to understand that bullies often come from difficult backgrounds. It is crucial to not only empower victims but also help bullies resolve issues in a positive way,” Kanai added.
In a small community like Palau, the effects of bullying can ripple through families and society, causing lasting damage. But by working together and committing to open dialogue, we can hopefully create a safer, more supportive environment for everyone. As Kanai advises, “Bullying is everywhere, but it shouldn’t stop us from living our lives.” Empower yourself and others, and don’t let it define who you are.
By taking these steps, Palau can begin to reverse the trend of cyberbullying and ensure that the digital age brings not only connectivity but also safety and respect for all citizens.
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