Editorial
The International Day to Protect Education from Attack, 9 September, is a global observance that aims to raise awareness and mobilize action for the protection of education and sustainable peace for all. The day was established by a unanimous decision of the UN General Assembly in 2020, following the initiative of the State of Qatar and the Education Above All Foundation. The day recognizes the importance of preserving education and protecting it from attack in armed conflict and insecurity situations, where schools, students, teachers, and other educational personnel often face violence, disruption, and discrimination.
A critical evaluation of the International Day to Protect Education from Attack, 9 September, may consider multiple aspects. The day addresses a pressing global challenge that affects millions of children and youth living in countries affected by conflict. According to UNESCO, more than 75 million children aged 3 to 18 live in 35 crisis-affected countries and need educational support. Attacks on education can have serious, long-term physical and psychological consequences for students and teachers and undermine the development and stability of societies. The day highlights the need to respect, uphold, and enjoy the right to education for everyone, especially in contexts of armed conflict and insecurity.
The day serves as an annual platform to amplify advocacy and galvanize action for the protection of education and sustainable peace for all. The day involves various stakeholders, such as governments, civil society organizations, media, and the general public, in raising awareness and understanding of the issue and promoting solutions and best practices. The day also supports the implementation of existing international instruments and frameworks, such as the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), the Safe Schools Declaration, and the Guidelines for Protecting Schools and Universities from Military Use during Armed Conflict.
The day faces challenges and limitations in achieving its objectives, including the need for more reliable data and information on the extent and nature of attacks on education in different contexts. More funding and resources must be needed to provide quality and inclusive education for all learners in emergencies. The persistent gaps and barriers in access to education for vulnerable groups, such as girls, migrants, refugees, and people with disabilities, are present to meet the objectives of education and functional literacy—the resistance and non-compliance of some parties to conflict to respect and protect education from attack is also a significant issue.
Lastly, the International Day to Protect Education from Attack, 9 September, is a relevant and urgent observance that addresses a global challenge affecting millions of children and youth living in countries affected by conflict. The day has some effectiveness and impact in raising awareness and mobilizing action for protecting education and sustainable peace for all. However, the day also faces challenges and limitations that require further attention and action from various stakeholders.
Pl, subscribe to the English/Urdu magazines of republicpolicy.com
