Defining Human Rights Education
In 2002, the Human Rights Education Youth Programme introduced a broad definition that included formal, non-formal and informal education possibilities and contexts for learning human rights:
Educational programmes and activities that focus on promoting equality in dignity, in conjunction with other programmes such as those promoting intercultural learning, participation and empowerment of minorities
This definition, which focused on the transformational function and aim of human rights education, remains largely valid. It was further articulated and detailed in the Council of Europe Charter on Education for Democratic Citizenship and Human Rights Education1 which embraces methods,
educational objectives and a long-term goal:
Human rights education means education, training, awareness raising, information, practices and activities which aim, by equipping learners with knowledge, skills and understanding and developing their attitudes and behaviour, to empower learners to contribute to the building and defence of a universal culture of human rights in society, with a view to the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms.
The Charter asks member states to develop policies, legislation and practice which aim at:
providing every person within their territory with the opportunity of education for democratic citizenship and human rights education
The Charter also recognises that learning in human rights education is a lifelong process and involves a wide range of stakeholders including policy makers, educational professionals, learners, parents, educational institutions, educational authorities, civil servants, non-governmental organisations, youth organisations, media and the general public.
What is your definition of human rights education?
Read more about Objectives and principles of Human Rights education >>