Education at a Defining Moment
Across the world, education systems are standing at a defining crossroads. Rapid technological change, artificial intelligence, climate uncertainty, social polarisation, and widening inequality are reshaping not only how people learn, but also why education exists.
In such moments, the role of civil society becomes critical—not to impose solutions, but to create space for dialogue, reflection, and shared values.
It is in this spirit that Education Charter International (ECI) 2026+ has been placed in the public domain as a global public consultation, inviting educators, institutions, communities, and citizens to collectively reflect on the future of education.
The Origins of Education Charter International
The Education Charter International was originally developed between 1999 and 2003 as a global call to action affirming education as:
- a public good
- a foundation of peace and democratic life
- a shared responsibility of governments, institutions, and citizens
Promoted through the CCLP Worldwide platform, the Charter was never intended as a law or regulation. Instead, it served as a moral and civic reference, encouraging integrity, inclusion, and cooperation across education systems.
Why a Renewal Is Needed Today
More than two decades later, the world has changed in profound ways.
Education today must respond to:
- Digital transformation and artificial intelligence
- Lifelong learning and skills disruption
- Inequality in access and opportunity
- Climate responsibility and sustainable development
- Ethical challenges such as misinformation and over-commercialisation
While the founding principles of the Charter remain relevant, its framework required renewal through dialogue, not unilateral decision-making. This has led to the development of ECI 2026+ as a consultative, forward-looking framework.
What Is ECI 2026+?
Education Charter International (ECI) 2026+ is a voluntary, non-binding, non-regulatory global framework.
It is:
- Not a treaty or policy mandate
- Not an accreditation, certification, or ranking system
- Not a replacement for national education systems
Instead, it offers a shared ethical compass—supporting reflection, cooperation, and responsible action across diverse educational contexts.
Education as a Lifelong and Civic Journey
A central idea within ECI 2026+ is that education is a lifelong journey, not a sequence of isolated stages.
The framework recognises:
- School education (K–12) as the foundation of citizenship and inclusion
- Technical and vocational education (TVET) as a source of dignity, skills, and livelihood
- Universities as ethical and intellectual anchors within society
- Lifelong learning as essential for participation, resilience, and democratic life
These elements are interdependent and equally valued.
Values at the Heart of the Charter
The renewed Charter continues to be grounded in six universal principles that resonate deeply with the mission of UNESCO Clubs worldwide:
- Equality – Education must be accessible and inclusive
- Accountability – Responsibility must guide all educational actors
- Integrity – Education should be protected from misuse and corruption
- Solidarity – Education is a shared global responsibility
- Courage – Reform requires moral clarity and the willingness to change
- Justice – Education should promote fairness, peace, and democratic participation
These principles form the ethical foundation of ECI 2026+.
The Role of UNESCO Clubs and Civil Society
UNESCO Clubs play a unique role as bridges between institutions and communities. In the context of ECI 2026+, they are invited to:
- Facilitate dialogue and awareness at the community level
- Encourage educators, parents, and learners to engage thoughtfully
- Promote values of peace, inclusion, and global citizenship
- Contribute perspectives rooted in local experience and civic engagement
The public consultation is not merely a procedural exercise—it is an opportunity for collective reflection.
The Public Consultation Process
The ECI 2026+ Public Consultation invites feedback from:
- Educators and institutions
- Civil society organisations and NGOs
- Parents, learners, and community groups
- Researchers, youth, and global citizens
All feedback is reviewed to improve clarity, relevance, and global applicability before the Charter is finalised.
An Invitation to Participate
Education Charter International (ECI) 2026+ represents a shared opportunity to reaffirm education’s role in building peaceful, inclusive, and just societies.
UNESCO Clubs, educators, and communities are encouraged to:
- Read the consultation document
- Discuss its ideas within their networks
- Share reflections and perspectives
The future of education should not be shaped behind closed doors. It must be shaped through dialogue, values, and shared responsibility.
Closing Note
Education Charter International (ECI) 2026+ is a voluntary, non-binding framework. It does not confer accreditation, certification, ranking status, or regulatory authority.