Human rights form the framework for equitable coexistence in a democratic society. Human rights education encourages people to stand up for their own rights and for the rights of those around them. It imparts knowledge about human rights, encourages people to reflect on their own mindset and to take a critical look at social structures and norms.
We educate the public on human rights and promote human rights principles such as inclusion, protection against discrimination, and participation in all educational contexts. The Human Rights Education department is actively involved in various areas to ensure that these principles are taught, developed and implemented. We work to ensure that this takes place across the entire breadth and depth of the education system.
Networking
The Human Rights Education Department sees itself as a forum for professional exchange on human rights education and its further development and works with civil society, universities and other national and international stakeholders. To this end, it organises events such as network meetings and conferences.
Educational materials
The Institute develops educational materials in various formats and for educators working in different contexts. We write specialist articles, statements and analyses. Where possible, we are also happy to advise stakeholders who are planning human rights education projects or events.
Policy advice
The Institute works in dialogue with education policymakers, universities, schools and training institutions to ensure that human rights play a greater role in training guidelines and curricula.
Main areas of focus
- Human rights education for the police
- ESC rights in educational work
- Principle of neutrality education
- Racism in educational work
Working methods
Our work and our programmes are based on the UN Declaration on Human Rights Education and Training: Learning about, through and for human rights. Human rights education strives to be non-discriminatory and accessible to everyone in the spirit of inclusion and to give people the opportunity for active participation.
Fundamentals of human rights
