The "right to education" is a fundamental human right recognized and protected by international law. It refers to the entitlement of every individual, regardless of their age, gender, race, ethnicity, religion, socioeconomic background, or any other characteristic, to receive free and compulsory quality education. This right is enshrined in several international legal instruments, such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, and the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
The right to education encompasses various crucial aspects. Firstly, it implies that education should be accessible and available to all individuals without any discrimination. It requires governments to eliminate barriers that may prevent individuals from accessing and completing their education, such as poverty, discrimination, disability, or cultural barriers.
Furthermore, the right to education emphasizes the importance of education being of a high quality. It enforces the obligation of states to provide an education that is inclusive, relevant, and meets certain standards that promote learning, critical thinking, and personal development.
Moreover, the right to education encompasses the principle of compulsory education, ensuring that individuals receive education at least at a primary level, and that they have the freedom to continue their education at higher levels if desired.
In summary, the right to education guarantees that everyone has the right to access, pursue, and complete their education on an equal basis, without facing discrimination or barriers, while ensuring that the education provided is of high quality and tailored to individual needs.
