Stress-relief doll Natasha sparks violence concerns, Ministry of Education urges schools to be vigilant

Taipei, June 24 (CNA) The stress-relief doll "Natasha," which has become popular in Chinese schools, has been turned into a tool for violent expression, raising social concerns. Deputy Minister of Education Chang Liao Wan-chien said today that it is currently understood that the doll has not yet become popular in Taiwan, but schools will be asked to pay attention and handle the situation.

A stress-relief toy named Natasha has become a sensation in China, but it has become a tool for violent expression on online platforms. Many people have uploaded videos of themselves pulling the doll out of shape, cutting it into pieces, and bursting it by filling it with water, raising concerns about violence. Some of these dolls are made to resemble black babies, which has been criticized as racist.

At a meeting of the Education and Culture Committee of the Legislative Yuan today, where the Ministry of Education was invited to report on the topic of "school affairs meetings," Democratic Progressive Party legislator Chen Hsiu-pao questioned the ministry, presenting two "Natasha" dolls and stating that they are already available in Taiwan and can be found in many claw machines, making them easily accessible to students.

Chen Hsiu-pao pointed out that many schools in China have already banned students from bringing "Natasha" into school, fearing that these products could create a copycat effect and lead to violence among children and adolescents. She believes that Taiwan could also discuss whether to ban them, but it should not be a strict ban; students should also be made aware of the concerns.

Chang Liao Wan-chien stated that it is currently understood that "Natasha" is popular in China, and similar toys are available in Taiwan. However, among children's social circles, the aforementioned abusive behavior has not yet appeared. The Ministry of Education will continue to monitor the situation, and if students exhibit similar behavior, schools will definitely be asked to assist in monitoring and handling the situation. (Editor: Chang Ming-kun) 1150624

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