On the occasion of the International Day of Education on January 24, INSAF Center for Rights and Development organized an open meeting attended by a select group of civil society activists, media professionals, and educators. The meeting aimed to discuss national and international standards for protecting children’s rights during armed conflicts, with a focus on the right to education.
During the meeting, Judge Shaif Mohammed Al-Shaibani, Head of the Training and Qualification Department at the Public Prosecutor’s Office, reviewed international and national standards related to the six grave violations of children’s rights during armed conflicts, particularly the impact of conflicts on the right to education.
The timing of the meeting was of particular significance as it coincided with the International Day of Education and brought together prominent leaders in the fields of education, media, and civil society organizations.
The participants also addressed issues such as the recruitment of children and the government’s commitments under the Safe Schools Declaration, which Yemen signed in 2017.
Mr. Mahmoud Al-Kawkani, Executive Director of INSAF Center for Rights and Development, praised the center’s role in implementing innovative projects aimed at protecting children’s rights. Among these is the SAFE II project, which focuses on addressing the six grave violations against children, especially the right to education.
Dr. Salwa Braik, Advisor to the Ministry of Justice on Women and Children’s Affairs, described the meeting as a “positive step,” stating, “The educational situation in Yemen has reached a tragic level, and efforts must unite among organizations and institutions to bring children back to classrooms.”
Dr. Nasreen Al-Fatemi, Executive Director of Basmat Safaa Foundation, emphasized the importance of activating mechanisms for protecting children’s rights in line with international agreements. She noted, “Children are the foundation of society and the future, and we must work to guarantee their basic rights.”
Mr. Abdullah Al-Bakri, Chairman of Aden Foundation for Arts and Sciences, stressed the importance of organizations focusing on education issues, highlighting the need to support teachers, advocate for their causes with relevant authorities, and activate the Education Fund to safeguard future generations.
The meeting concluded with recommendations from the participants, including:
• Emphasizing that education is the cornerstone for building the future of children and communities.
• Urging all parties in Yemen to protect children’s right to education and prevent targeting educational facilities.
• Enhancing media awareness to advocate for teachers’ issues and improve their conditions.
• Reviewing and amending education-related laws to align with societal realities.
• Organizing workshops and training sessions to continuously raise community awareness of children’s rights.
INSAF Center reaffirmed its commitment to continuing efforts and advocacy to achieve development in Yemen. This includes signing the statement issued by the meeting and holding upcoming discussions with leaders of international and local organizations as well as government officials. The center stressed that education is a national issue concerning everyone and the foundational pillar for building a sustainable society.
