UN Convention on the Rights of Child (UNCRC), 1989
The UN Convention on the Rights of Child (UNCRC), 1989 is a pivotal international treaty that sets out the civil, political, economic, social, health, and cultural rights of children. The Convention recognises the right to education as a fundamental human right essential for the development of the child. Pakistan ratified UNCRC on 12th November, 1990.
Article 28 pertains to the right of education in regards to children. It emphasises that states must make primary education compulsory and available to all children without any financial barrieres, which is essential for equitable development. Article 29 addresses the aims of education, stipulating that education should be directed to the development of the child’s personality, talents, and mental and physical abilities to their fullest potentials. Article 40 highlights the importance of providing educational opportunities for children in conflict with the law, enabling them to reintegrate into society and reduce recidivism through education. Moreover, Article 24(2) addresses the importance of education in promoting children’s health and well-being. It mandates that states take appropriate measures to ensure that educational environments are conducive to learning, free from discrimination, and supportive of children’s health needs.
Universal Declaration on Human Rights (UDHR), 1948
The Universal Declaration on Human Rights (UDHR), 1948 is a foundational document that outlines the fundamental human rights to be universally protected. Its importance in the context of education is profound, as it establishes the right to education as a critical component of human dignity and development.
Article 26 articulates the fundamental right of every individual to receive education, especially children, which is essential for their holistic development and integration into society. The Article mandates that elementary education be free and compulsory, thereby obligating state parties to ensure that all children, irrespective of their socio-economic status, can access foundational learning without financial impediments. Moreover, the Article emphasises the importance of education in fostering respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, as well as recognising the rights of parents to determine the educational direction of their children, thus ensuring that educational frameworks respect all cultural and religious values while promoting equitable access to educational opportunities.
International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), 1966
The International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), 1966 is pivotal in establishing the framework for the right to education as a fundamental human right. Pakistan ratified the ICESCR on 17th April, 2008.
Article 13 emphasises that education should be accessible to all without discrimination and should promote the full development of the human personality and dignity. The Article mandates that primary education be free and compulsory, while secondary and higher education should be made progressively available and accessible to all individuals based on their capacity. This framework not only underscores the importance of education in fostering individual empowerment and societal development but also obligates state parties to ensure that educational systems are inclusive, equitable, and of high quality.
The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The Sustainable Development Goals consist of 17 global objectives established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015, forming an important component of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Goal 4 specifically emphasizes the importance of ‘Quality Education’, aiming to ensure inclusive and equitable access to quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all individuals.
Acknowledgement: Sidra Haya Ali-Qazalbash, Policy and Legal Advisor at Obun2