Geneva (Switzerland), 30th–31st October 2025 | Within the framework of the United Nations, the Human Rights Council convened the 2025 Social Forum under the theme “The contribution of education to the respect, promotion, protection and fulfilment of all human rights for all,” in which OIDEL actively participated.
Held every year in Geneva, the Social Forum brings together civil society representatives, Member States, and intergovernmental organizations for an open and constructive dialogue on key human rights issues. This year’s discussions centered on how education can contribute to the respect, promotion, protection, and fulfilment of all human rights for everyone.
Oral statement during the panel on education for political rights
During this panel on education for political rights, the panelists highlighted the importance of participation, citizenship, and ensuring that everyone can meaningfully express their voice as key elements for the full enjoyment of political rights.
In the interactive dialogue, OIDEL had the opportunity to deliver an oral statement reminding participants that, as stated in Article 13 of the ICESCR (International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights), education should prepare individuals to take part in a free and democratic society. OIDEL emphasized that education must be a space where cultural diversity and mutual understanding are fostered. In today’s increasingly pluralistic world, a single public school model often struggles to reflect this diversity, which can lead to the exclusion of minorities.
The statement also stressed the importance of respecting parental rights, as recognized in Article 26 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. When these rights are respected, children can grow up with an education that reflects their cultural context and helps them become active, responsible citizens. OIDEL further recalled that both the CESCR (Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights) and the European Court of Human Rights have made clear that respecting parental rights also means that states have positive obligations: to support diverse educational institutions and provide financial assistance so that all families can truly exercise their freedom of choice of education.
OIDEL welcomes the Social Forum’s recognition of education as a cornerstone of human rights and democracy. Education should reflect and celebrate cultural diversity, respect the role of parents, and help build more inclusive and democratic communities.