Two Tragic Suicides in France Highlight Serious School Harassment Concerns

In January 2026, France was shaken by the heartbreaking suicides of two teenage girls, each linked to alleged school harassment, prompting investigations and intense public scrutiny.

A 14-year-old student from the private Saint-Louis school in Saint-Nazaire died by suicide on January 3 after enduring 14 months of alleged bullying, according to her family. The hospital where she was found deceased confirmed her death but reported no failures in care. Despite the family's accusations of bullying and alleged encouragements to suicide, the Catholic education authority of Loire-Atlantique denied these claims, instead framing the situation as peer conflict. They acknowledged recognizing the girl's difficulties and took measures such as changing her class at the parents' request. In response to the tragedy, a psychological support unit was established at the school, and the local prosecutor’s office initiated an investigation into the circumstances.

Separately, on January 13, 17-year-old Camélia in Mitry-Mory took her own life under similar circumstances, with her family filing a formal complaint linking her suicide to school harassment. Two investigations have been opened, including one examining school harassment as a contributing factor. The prosecutor advised restraint in publicly accusing individuals, particularly the school principal. However, Camélia’s uncle openly criticized the principal's handling of a meeting on the day of her death, describing it as accusatory. He noted that Camélia suffered from anxiety, changes in behavior, and was mocked by peers about her conduct and appearance. Emergency suicide prevention services remain accessible to support at-risk youths.

Both cases underscore ongoing challenges in addressing school harassment in France. Authorities are investigating thoroughly amid calls for enhanced protective measures. Psychological support resources have been mobilized to assist students and staff grappling with these tragedies.