Human rights and the environment are inextricably linked. A clean, healthy and sustainable environment is essential for present and future generations to enjoy their human rights to the fullest. The world is witnessing increasingly severe impacts from various environmental threats, with the triple planetary crisis of biodiversity loss, climate change and pollution being the most pressing. Young people are among those most vulnerable to environmental degradation and related human rights violations. At the same time, they are also among the most fervent defenders of the environment. Nevertheless, there is a notable lack of accessible, human rights-based environmental education for young people, whether formal or non-formal. This course aims to reinforce young people’s understanding of the legal standards relating to the environment and human rights, empowering them to take action based on these rights and enhancing their resilience in the face of violations relating to both the environment and human rights.

This course was developed by the North-South Centre, in partnership with the United Nations Environment Programme, with the support of the Spanish Agency for Development Aid and Cooperation and the Fundación para la Internacionalización de las Administraciones Públicas. It is implemented as part of the joint programme between the European Union and the Council of Europe “iLEGEND III”.

Despite easier access to information thanks to technology, problems such as mistrust, hate crimes and prejudice persist in societies characterised by significant cultural and religious diversity, particularly among young people who often feel disconnected in educational settings. Many educators lack the skills for effective intercultural and interfaith dialogue, which are crucial for fostering inclusive, quality education. Developing these competencies is essential for promoting understanding and integration in diverse societies. The online course aims to equip young people – education professionals in the formal and non-formal sectors, media professionals and members of civil society and faith-based organisations – with new skills and competences in global education, intercultural/interfaith dialogue and human rights.

 This course has been developed by the North-South Centre in collaboration with the AKDN-Aga Khan Development Network, KAICIID - International Dialogue Centre, United Nations Alliance of Civilizations and Universidad Católica de Valencia (ECUDEM-UCV), with the contribution of the Dicastery for the Interreligious Dialogue of the Holy See. Il est mis en œuvre dans le cadre du programme conjoint entre l’Union européenne et le Conseil de l’Europe « iLEGEND III ».  

The advancements in information and communication technologies have transformed our world, enabling the global exchange of information, communication, and knowledge, while amplifying the role of media as a vital connector. This course explores various aspects of media literacy and information, examining their connection to human rights and democracy. Key topics include relevant legal frameworks, freedom of expression, privacy, digital threats, critical analysis, media manipulation, the influence of digital platforms, online participation, and emerging digital challenges, among others.

This course was developed by the North-South Centre of the Council of Europe in partnership with the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF). It is implemented as part of the joint programme between the European Union and the Council of Europe “iLEGEND III”.

The protection of personal data is part of the right to privacy and must be guaranteed for all. It is now a major issue due to the rise of information and communication technologies, which rely in part on the processing and monetisation of personal data. Although the processing of such data is regulated by various international legal instruments, the general public remains largely uninformed on this subject. Young people are among the most active users of digital platforms and the Internet, but many remain insufficiently aware of the challenges and risks related to the protection of personal data. This course aims to raise awareness of this issue in order to contribute to the creation of a digital society that is more respectful of privacy and individual freedoms. It will help young people to better understand the issues, challenges and risks associated with personal data protection. It will also address the tools and solutions available to them so that they can navigate the digital space safely and responsibly.

This course was developed by the North-South Centre, in collaboration with the Council of Europe's Personal Data Protection Unit, and in partnership with the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF) and the Arab Information and Communication Technologies Organisation (AICTO). It is implemented as part of the joint initiative between the European Union and the Council of Europe “South Programme VI, Strengthening Euro-Mediterranean legal space for shared prosperity and human security”.

Sport contributes to people’s health and happiness by breaking down barriers, building trust, and fostering community spirit. It is a major means of transmitting education and values, particularly to young people. However, sport is facing major global challenges, ranging from doping and match-fixing to stadium safety issues, abuse of young athletes, and discrimination. This HEY course explores the relationship between sport and human rights, with the aim of building a more responsible, inclusive and ethical sporting world. It highlights sport's potential to improve social well-being, integration, and peace. The course covers the structure of the sports and human rights sectors, including key stakeholders, their responsibilities, and practical implementation. It also provides tools to promote and protect human rights in sport through research, advocacy and activism, and encourages youth involvement in creating a positive societal and sustainable development impact.

This HEY course was developed by the North-South Centre, with the support of the Council of Europe's Partial Agreement on Sport, in cooperation with the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF), the African Union and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO). It is implemented as part of the joint initiative between the European Union and the Council of Europe “South Programme VI, Strengthening Euro-Mediterranean legal space for shared prosperity and human security”.