15 representatives of national authorities, youth organisations, partner organisations and human rights educators gathered at the European Youth Centre Budapest on 4-5 June 2026 as a follow-up to the “Unleashing Human Rights” Forum on human rights education, held in December 2025. The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss the future of human rights education with young people and strengthen cooperation for its implementation across Europe.
Participants reflected on recent developments and existing initiatives in human rights education, identified priorities for future action, and explored ways to translate the Forum’s recommendations into concrete initiatives at local, national and European levels. Discussions also focused on adapting human rights education practices to the challenges of rapidly evolving societies.
The importance of human rights education was reaffirmed, particularly in promoting democratic participation, inclusion, equality, and respect for human dignity. In a context of increasing polarisation, discrimination, and threats to democratic values, participants recognised it as an essential tool for empowering young people to act as active citizens and human rights defenders.
Experiences were shared on the use of educational resources, including Compass, with an emphasis on how capacity-building, advocacy, and partnerships contribute significantly to strengthening communities of practice across Europe and beyond.
Particular attention was given to enhancing the quality, accessibility, relevance and sustainability of human rights education. Participants identified the need to further support youth organisations, educators and trainers through practical tools, funding opportunities and capacity-building activities. They also stressed the importance of addressing emerging challenges affecting young people, including the impact of artificial intelligence and digital technologies on human rights, declining trust in democratic institutions, climate change and growing social inequalities. As the second day of the meeting coincided with World Environment Day, discussions also highlighted the growing relevance of environmental and climate-related issues within human rights education. Participants emphasised the need to reach young people from diverse backgrounds and equip them with the knowledge, skills and values needed to navigate an increasingly complex and interconnected world.
The meeting also marked the beginning of reflections on the 2027 review of the Council of Europe Charter on Education for Democratic Citizenship and Human Rights Education. Participants welcomed the opportunity to contribute to the review process, which was seen as an important opportunity to assess progress achieved since the Charter’s adoption and reinforce its relevance in addressing contemporary challenges.
