UNESCO

1. Human Rights Education
in a changing historical context
Arab Institute for Human Rights
Tunis, 21-22 Mar 2016
Sobhi Tawil
UNESCO

2. A World of Increasing
Contradiction
Economic growth Ecological stress, unsustainable
production/consumption
Population tripled 1950-2000; Consumption of natural resources;
Urbanization and Expansion of middle class lifestyles; climate change
Poverty reduction Vulnerability, inequality,
and exclusion
Global poverty rates reduced 1990-2010; Low employment growth; Unemployment & underemployment
Declining job quality; 50% wealth concentrated in 1 % of population; Undermining social cohesion
Interconnected world Division, intolerance & conflict
Growth of connectivity; Reducing space and time in human relations; Information and knowledge more available to all;
Youth most connected, informed aware generation; Opportunities for exchange and cooperation

3. Reaffirming
a Humanistic Approach
to Learning

4. Fundamental principles of humanism
 Concern for sustainable human and social development
 Recognizing the diversity of lived realities
 Reaffirming a core of ethical values
– Respect for life and human dignity
– Equal rights and social justice
– Respect for cultural diversity
– Sense of collective responsibility and commitment to solidarity

5. Purpose of Education
To enhance and sustain
the dignity and capacity of the human person
in relation to others and to nature
UNESCO 2015 Rethinking Education: Towards a global common good?

6. What is a Humanistic Approach to Education?
Beyond a utilitarian approach
Give equal importance to multiple dimensions of education
Policy focus on equity
Education as a public good and collective responsibility
An integrated approach to learning

7. An Integrated Approach to Learning

9. SDG 4
Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education
and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all

10. Education 2030
Target 4.7
By 2030, ensure that all learners acquire knowledge and skills
needed to promote sustainable development, including,
among others, through education for sustainable
development and sustainable lifestyles, human rights,
gender equality, promotion of a culture of peace and non-
violence, global citizenship and appreciation of cultural
diversity and of culture’s contribution to sustainable
development.