The Global Student Forum welcomes the Human Rights Council’s resolution recognizing education as a cornerstone for democracy, human rights, and the rule of law (A/HRC/58/L.17/Rev.1). As the global voice of students, we have consistently affirmed that education must not only transmit knowledge, but also foster critical consciousness, civic engagement, and resistance to authoritarianism.
In a time marked by democratic erosion, systemic inequality, and increasing disinformation, this resolution offers timely and much-needed affirmation that education is political — not partisan, but a public good that enables people to challenge oppression, demand accountability, and shape their societies. We are particularly encouraged by the Council’s emphasis on quality, inclusive education that promotes democratic values, combats discrimination, and ensures meaningful participation, especially for those in vulnerable situations.
Students are not only recipients of education — we are active agents of change. We call on governments and institutions to meaningfully include students in the development of educational strategies and civic education policies, both inside and outside the classroom. The defense of education must include protecting students and educators from political violence, ensuring access to safe learning spaces, and rejecting the commodification of knowledge.
We also support the ongoing calls for a UN Special Rapporteur on Democracy. As students who experience the consequences of democratic decline — from surveillance and repression to exclusion and underfunding — we believe international mechanisms for accountability and support are long overdue.
This resolution must not be another declaration left unimplemented. We urge Member States to turn these commitments into policy, funding, and institutional change. A resilient democracy is one that listens to and learns with its students.
Jacob Blasius, Executive Director of the Global Student Forum says:
This resolution is a powerful reminder that education is not just about learning — it is about empowerment, resistance, and transformation. Around the world, students are standing at the frontlines of democracy, and it is time that governments recognize us not just as beneficiaries of education, but as co-creators of democratic futures. We welcome this renewed commitment and urge states to act — to protect, fund, and democratize education as a public good. -
