“For Sandra, and for all of us who have suffered and still suffer the scourge of bullying.” With that slogan, thousands of students took to the streets across Spain on Tuesday to demand justice and real action against school harassment, following the death of 15-year-old Sandra Peña in Seville. 

The protests, organized by the Student Union, took place in over 40 cities—from Bilbao to Málaga—during a nationwide student strike.

Banners read, “Sandra, we won’t forget you. There are responsible parties.” Demonstrators demanded justice, effective anti-bullying protocols, and the resignation of the management of the Irlandesas de Loreto school, where Sandra studied. 

According to the Student Union, school officials ignored multiple warnings from the girl’s parents, who had filed formal complaints supported by psychological reports.

The organization claims that the school failed to activate its anti-bullying and self-harm prevention protocols, prioritizing the institution’s reputation over student safety. 

In a public statement, the union called for the immediate withdrawal of public funding from the school and criminal prosecution of those responsible. “Not one more public euro for the private education business that covers up bullying and abuse,” the organization declared. 

Protests continue in Andalusia

The protests also targeted the Andalusian regional government, led by the Popular Party, accusing it of maintaining agreements with private institutions and dismantling public education.

Students demanded the hiring of guidance counselors, psychologists, and mediators in every school to provide immediate support for victims and prevent future cases. 

The Student Union condemned the lack of mental health prioritization and argued that overcrowded classrooms prevent teachers from identifying or responding to signs of distress.

They also criticized Spain’s central government for failing to implement a national suicide prevention plan or to strengthen psychological support services in schools. 

Union leaders contrasted education cuts with rising defense spending and increased funding for private businesses. “While psychologists and counselors are being cut, private enterprises are being subsidized and armies are being armed,” they said. 

The demonstrations, held peacefully, ended with moments of silence for Sandra Peña. Organizers announced further protests in the coming weeks if their demands remain unanswered. 

Although education authorities have promised to review school response protocols, the student movement insists on immediate action. “No more silence, no more victims,” students chanted outside the Ministries of Education and Health, in a day that marked a nationwide stand against the impunity of bullying in Spanish schools.