This position paper emphasizes the fundamental right of every child to education, highlighting that no child should face discrimination based on their identity, background, or circumstances. Regardless of who they are, where they live, what language they speak, or whether they have a disability, every child is entitled to equitable treatment and quality education in a safe, supportive environment free from violence. Discipline in schools must respect children’s rights, and learners should be encouraged and supported to pursue education to the highest level.
A particular focus of the paper is inclusive education for children with disabilities. Drawing on The Right of Children with Disabilities to Education: A Rights-Based Approach to Inclusive Education, the paper presents a conceptual framework grounded in human rights principles, building on the Salamanca Statement, UNCRC, and UNCRPD. It defines key concepts of inclusive education and outlines the barriers faced by children with disabilities in accessing education—especially in Central Eastern Europe and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CEECIS).
The publication offers a range of policy and strategy options aimed at ensuring the right to quality education for every child with a disability. It advocates for collaborative implementation involving government bodies, local municipalities, civil society, and parents. These strategies are designed not only for targeted interventions but also as part of broader system-wide reforms, aligning with UNICEF’s Child-Friendly Schools framework.
This paper, alongside The Right of Roma Children to Education – Position Paper (April 2011), serves as a key reference for advocacy and policymaking—particularly to support the inclusion of the most vulnerable and marginalized children.
