September 28, 2026
VRT’s STIP IT across borders: a united front against bullying
For nearly a decade, STIP IT has encouraged children in Flanders to stand up against bullying. With four dots on the hand as its powerful and recognisable symbol, the VRT campaign brings children together around a simple message: bullying should never be ignored. Today, that message is travelling far beyond Flanders.
From Flemish campaign to international symbol
Since its launch, STIP IT has grown into a household name in Flanders. Every year, the campaign encourages children and young people to draw four dots on their hand as a visible commitment to stand up against bullying. What started as a Flemish initiative is increasingly crossing national borders. The four dots are becoming a recognisable symbol for opening up conversations about bullying and showing that no one should have to face it alone.
“STIP IT has become an important part of the lives of children in Flanders. It is wonderful to see the four dots crossing national borders as well. This visible symbol for opening up the conversation about bullying is gradually becoming a universal sign, and that is something we can only be very proud of.” – Anne Dreesen, Channel Manager at Ketnet
Since 2023, NPO Zapp, the children’s channel of the Dutch public broadcaster, has been running its own STIP IT campaign. The first edition was launched in January 2023, followed by a new and bigger edition in September 2025 during the Week Against Bullying.
Wallonia has also joined the movement. In November 2024, RTBF launched its first HOPE campaign (Harcèlement, On s'y oppose et On en Parle Ensemble), with Loïc Nottet as its ambassador. For two weeks, its programming focused on anti-bullying themes.
“HOPE is a key initiative in raising awareness and combating harassment. Hope provides a valuable opportunity for teachers to discuss this crucial issue with their students in the classroom, fostering open dialogue and encouraging them to speak up. Through HOPE, kids are given a safe space to express their feelings and work together towards a future free from harassment.” - Nicolas-Xavier Ladouce, Head of "Thématique Services aux publics" for HOPE at RTBF
STIP IT in Slovenia
In March 2025, RTV Slovenia organised its own version of STIP IT under the name ‘Odpikajmo nasilje’, which loosely translates to “Away with violence.” The inspiration came directly from Ketnet’s presentation at the EBU Kids meeting. The campaign was widely supported by the government, educational institutions, and experts, and was broadcast on TV, radio, and digital channels.
“We aired the campaign in the children’s and youth programming, connecting all three parts of national television: TV, radio, and digital. We spread the dots throughout Slovenian cities via posters, flags, and social media. Even the President of Slovenia drew dots.” – Martina Peštaj, Head of Children’s and Youth Programming at TV Slovenija
