Informing humanitarians worldwide 24/7 — a service provided by UN OCHA

World + 2 more

Leaving No Child Behind: Childhood Statelessness and the Fight for Inclusive Education

Attachments

This report highlights the global issue of childhood statelessness, which affects millions of children and denies them their right to a nationality. Statelessness often stems from discrimination, gaps in birth registration, conflicting nationality laws, and is frequently passed from one generation to the next. Without nationality, children face serious barriers to accessing basic rights- especially education. These barriers, whether legal or practical, prevent stateless children from enrolling in school or completing their studies. The result is often low self-esteem, poor educational outcomes, and limited opportunities in life. While international law guarantees the right to education for all children, many national laws and policies still exclude stateless children. Community groups working directly with affected families stress the need for better support, inclusive policies, and alternative education projects that meet children where they are.

The report calls for international solidarity and coordinated action, discussing the design and delivery of a coordinated Awareness Month on Childhood Statelessness and the Right to Education. It also invites further support for an Open Letter on Inclusive Education for Stateless Children, already signed by over 850 people, to ensure no child is left behind.