Attacks on learners, educators and education institutions are tragically common in many parts of the world today. From girls being attacked on their way home from school in Pakistan, to the disappearance and assassination of teachers and trade union workers in Colombia, to the occupation and destruction of educational buildings in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, these acts are abhorrent, violating fundamental rights and undermining the provision of education and the life-saving and life-sustaining supports that learning can provide, particularly in the midst of crises.

Reducing the incidence of attacks on education and bringing perpetrators to justice is critical to the safety and development of individuals and communities affected by conflict and insecurity. An international seminar convened by UNESCO from 28 September to 1 October this year brought together a range of actors, including education, protection and legal experts, to take critical stock of existing research and practice, identify opportunities to strengthen monitoring and reporting, increase accountability and encourage rigourous research to address these issues.

The recommendations from this event and a collation of new resources on this topic were shared on the INEE Listserv. To access the entire message click here.

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