UNESCO conference to examine state of education in Iraq

Over 150 international experts will examine the current state of Iraq’s education system, with a spotlight on the right to attend school, at an upcoming United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) conference in Paris.

Iraqi educators and students, academics and donors, along with representatives of international and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), will be among the participants at the 30 October-1 November event.

The war in Iraq which began in 2003 has taken a toll on educational institutions, with over one fifth of Iraqi children not attending school, with girls being particularly affected.

The quality of education is falling, with many educators who have been the victims of threats and attacks having fled the country. Since the start of the conflict, over 250 teachers have been assassinated, while many more have disappeared.

Participants at the UNESCO conference will assess the legal framework of the right to education in conflict situations; the role of the media; humanitarian responses; and post-conflict reconstruction in the education sector.

The gathering will focus on five priority themes: access to basic quality education; protecting Iraqi intellectuals, academics teachers, students and institutions; universities; displaced persons; and refugees.