Human Rights Education

Abstract

This chapter discusses the need for and value of children’s human rights education (HRE). It does so within the normative framework of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and related human rights instruments. The chapter discusses the growth of an international movement for HRE, models of HRE, and initiatives for children’s HRE in schools and non-formal education. Such initiatives are scattered and limited in scope. However, where comprehensive children’s rights education is provided, the evidence shows its success in teaching children about, through, and for human rights. It suggests also that children’s HRE can provide the framework for building a culture of human rights. In essence, children’s HRE is consistent with the goals of HRE described by the United Nations. The chapter concludes with a discussion of the lack of political commitment as an overarching challenge for HRE.