Resources

The ultimate aim of this handbook is to facilitate the realization and universal enjoyment of the right to education. Its objective is not to present the right to education as an abstract, conceptual, or purely legal concept, but rather to be action-oriented. Where possible, practical guidance is given on how to implement and monitor the right to education along with recommendations to overcome persistent barriers. It seeks to do this by:

• Increasing awareness and knowledge of the right to education. This includes the normative content of the right to education, states’ legal obligations, the various sources of law regarding the right to education, what states must do to domestically implement the right to education, how to monitor the right to education, and how to increase accountability of the right to education. 
• Providing a summary of current debates and issues regarding education and what human rights law says about them, including on forced migration, education in emergencies, the privatization of education, and the challenge of reaching the most marginalized.
• Providing an overview of the UN landscape and its mechanisms, including a clear understanding of the role of UNESCO and more generally the UN, as well as all relevant stakeholders in education, particularly civil society.

UNESCO’s Strategy on standard-setting instruments in the field of education (2016-2021) encourages Member States of the Organization to use normative action in relation with the right to education as a strategic tool to implement and achieve SDG4. In line with this, this handbook – specifically foreseen by the Strategy– will also serve as a reference tool for the design and organization of training modules and workshops in the field of right to education.

Finally, the handbook will also be an important reference for those working towards the achievement of SDG4, by offering guidance on how to leverage legal commitment to the right to education as a strategic way to achieve this goal.