Protecting Education from Attack: A Global Imperative

On September 9, the international community marks the International Day to Protect Education from Attack, a reminder of the imperative to ensure access to safe and inclusive education for all students. The occasion highlights the need for states to strengthen education systems in the face of crises, such as wars and conflicts, which have destroyed schools and universities, and in some cases, turned educational institutions into military sites or shelters. Education is a top national and international priority for the State of Qatar under the leadership of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, who has consistently emphasized the protection of education from attacks.

Key Takeaways:

• The State of Qatar has consistently recognized the importance of protecting education from attack, reflecting its recognized role in mediation and dispute resolution through peaceful means.
• Qatar submitted a draft resolution to the 74th session of the UN General Assembly in 2019, designating September 9 as the International Day to Protect Education from Attack, which was adopted unanimously.
• The Safe Schools Declaration, launched in 2015, is among the leading initiatives supported by Qatar, and has advanced numerous partnerships to protect students and teachers in times of conflict.
• The Education Above All Foundation, led by HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, has played a distinguished role in championing education worldwide, working to deliver quality learning opportunities to millions of out-of-school children, particularly those affected by poverty, war, and disasters.
• Qatar affirms that education is a fundamental right that must be preserved under all circumstances, including for those displaced by war, and stresses the need for innovative solutions to address the ongoing crisis of attacks on education.

Statistics:

• Attacks on education in conflict zones rose sharply last year, with incidents increasing by 44% (United Nations report).
• A United Nations report warned that attacks on education in conflict zones resulted in the killing, kidnapping, and injury of thousands of students and teachers.
• Qatar has carried out projects in dozens of conflict-affected countries, enabling millions of children to return to school and regain hope for a better future (Director of the Al Fakhoora Program at EAA).
• Education is a fundamental right that must be preserved under all circumstances, including for those displaced by war.

Sources:

• UNESCO Constitution
• Draft resolution submitted by Qatar to the 74th session of the UN General Assembly in 2019
• Qatar News Agency (QNA)
• Director of the Al Fakhoora Program at EAA, Talal Alhathal
• United Nations report on attacks on education in conflict zones