Torchbearer of anti-bullying campaign Jonathan Destin dies in France

Gulf Today Report

Jonathan Destin, who became a symbol of the fight against bullying at school, died last Saturday "in his sleep" at the age of 27. Destin story caused concern in France, after he was bullied for 6 years in school and college.

He tried to end his life on February 8, 2011 by setting himself on fire, before throwing himself in a river. At the time, the young man was 16 years old. He survived, but his burns remained at 72 per cent, and he underwent about 20 surgeries.

To rebuild his character after this tragedy, Destin wrote a book in 2013 called "Condamné à me tuer," which was turned into a movie in 2018.

The young man described his work as "liberation and a way for him to express to his parents what he never said."

Destin helped spread awareness about bullying at school.

The announcement of his death sparked reactions on social media.

"His courageous struggle reminds us that we always need to continue to combat all forms of harassment," French Minister of Higher Education and Research Sylvie Ritaello said on her Twitter account.