International Day to Protect Education from Attack

Observed to promote peace and development of educational dwellings, International Day to Protect Education from Attack urges nations to protect the right to education even amidst conflict and crises.

The International Day to Protect Education from Attack was first observed on 9 September 2020 by the UN; Source: Adda247

Observed on 9 September annually, International Day to Protect Education from Attack stands as a stark reminder of the vulnerable stance educational institutions occupy as potential targets of attack in conflict-ridden zones. In a world where education is under constant threat leading to its inaccessibility, the day calls for action against the anti-social elements who threaten the functioning of educational institutions, seeking to dismantle the hopes of a better future.

With episodes of attack on educational institutions increasing at an alarming rate, especially in conflict zones, it becomes crucial to urge for international solidarity to curb this growing menace. The observance of International Day to Protect Education from Attack is one such recent initiative that recognises the devastating impact such attacks can have on the spirit of learning and those involved, including students and educators alike. Moreover, the very basis of the concept of egalitarian and democratic education is challenged owing to being susceptible to attacks.

The observance of International Day to Protect Education from Attack therefore traces its origins to various advocacy organisations working under the premise of acknowledging education as a fundamental human right. The Right to Education which is in a state of constant flux, especially in conflict-ridden zones requires strict implementation, a need which was also recognised by the United Nations in 2019. The UN Security Council in its Resolution 2474 emphasised the need to safeguard education from potential attacks, especially in areas marked by armed conflict.

Motivated by the UN Security Council’s adoption of the resolution, a global coalition of non-governmental organisations announced the first-ever observance of International Day to Protect Education from Attack on 9 September 2020. Moreover, the date chosen was exceptionally significant as it urged the public to remember the bombing of the UN Mission in Sierra Leone on 9 September 2000 which resulted in the displacement of students from a school that was in close physical proximity to the the mission and witnessed the deaths of UN personnel.

The inaugural day aimed at raising awareness about the multi-faceted threats to education, owing to bombings, terror attacks, abductions, sexual violence and threats against students and educators alike. Recognising the need to maintain untampered dissemination of knowledge, the day urged various stakeholders including governmental and non-governmental organisations besides armed groups to protect education at all costs. The agenda behind the observance of International Day to Protect Education from Attack has remained steadfast over the years, spurring discourses and policy initiatives in the public sphere.

International Day to Protect Education from Attack also honours the resilience of students and educators as they continue pursuing education against all odds especially in in conflict-ridden zones, as the case of Malala Yousafzai seems to testify. The day urges civil society, international organisations and governments to collaborate to condemn past and contemporary attacks on the spirit of education while working tirelessly to eliminate the possibility of potential attacks.

With humanity facing a constant threat of violence, it is only education that can serve as a harbinger of peace besides being a tool for empowerment and development. International Day to Protect Education from Attack thereby strives to protect the spirit of education, even amid conflict.