What is the significance of the International Day to Protect Education from Attack?
The International Day to Protect Education from Attack is observed every year on September 9 to spotlight the urgent need to safeguard schools, students, and educators in zones of conflict and crisis. Established by the United Nations, this day calls attention to the grave risks faced by children and teachers in war-affected regions—where education, a fundamental human right, is frequently disrupted or destroyed by violence. Marking this day serves as a reminder of our shared responsibility to defend education as a path to peace and a foundation for sustainable development. In 2025, the commemoration remains vital as conflicts continue to threaten the future of millions globally.
History and Origin
The International Day to Protect Education from Attack was formalized by a United Nations General Assembly resolution in 2020, spearheaded by the State of Qatar and co-sponsored by 62 countries. The need for this observance arose from alarming global reports—such as the education under attack 2024 report—highlighting increasing incidents where educational settings become direct targets amid armed conflicts. The day seeks to mobilize international consensus around safeguarding students and teachers, amplifying advocacy for initiatives like the Safe Schools Declaration. Marked annually with support from agencies like UNESCO and UNICEF, September 9 is now designated for awareness and action on this critical issue.
Theme of International Day to Protect Education from Attack 2025
The 2025 theme of the International Day to Protect Education from Attack will be officially announced by the United Nations closer to the date. Each year, the theme addresses emerging global challenges or highlights a key area, such as the safety of schools in conflict zones, the mental health needs of affected children, or the vital role of education in peacebuilding. Previous themes have focused on uniting for the protection of learning spaces and ensuring access to safe learning for all children, no matter where they live. For 2025, watch for updates from UNESCO and UNICEF as the day approaches.
How International Day to Protect Education from Attack Is Observed
- Awareness campaigns organized by UNESCO, local NGOs, and advocacy groups in schools, colleges, and communities
- Government and NGO initiatives promoting the Safe Schools Declaration and policy commitments to protect learning in crisis environments
- Online events and global webinars discussing the significance of safe education, sharing stories, and releasing new reports
- Public engagements such as rallies, social media campaigns using hashtags like #ProtectEducationFromAttack, contests for posters or slogans, and donation drives to support education in conflict areas
Inspiring Quotes and Slogans
- "Education is not a privilege, it is a right—even in times of war." – UNESCO
- "Attacks on education are attacks on the future of humanity." – António Guterres
- "Children should carry books, not weapons. Protect schools, protect dreams." – UNICEF
- "Without safe education, peace is impossible." – Safe Schools Declaration
- "Let the voice of every child be heard in a classroom, not silenced by conflict." – GCPEA
- "Securing education secures the future." – Global Coalition to Protect Education from Attack (GCPEA)
FAQs on International Day to Protect Education from Attack 2025
1. What is the International Day to Protect Education from Attack?
International Day to Protect Education from Attack is globally observed on September 9 to raise awareness about safeguarding students, teachers, and schools in conflict zones. The day focuses on the urgent need to prevent attacks on education and to uphold every child's right to safe learning.
Key points include:
- Established by the United Nations in 2020
- Promotes the Safe Schools Declaration
- Highlights impact of conflicts on children and education
2. Why do we observe International Day to Protect Education from Attack?
The day is observed to shine a light on the rising threats and attacks geared toward educational institutions in conflict-affected areas worldwide. It encourages governments and communities to take action and ensure the safety of students and teachers.
Main reasons include:
- To support the right to safe and uninterrupted education
- To advocate for global adoption of the Safe Schools Declaration
- To protect children’s futures from the effects of war and violence
- To promote peace, humanitarian law, and security in schools
3. When is International Day to Protect Education from Attack observed?
International Day to Protect Education from Attack is observed annually on September 9. This United Nations observance is marked across the world, drawing attention to protecting education during conflict.
4. What is the theme of International Day to Protect Education from Attack 2025?
The official theme for International Day to Protect Education from Attack 2025 is set by the United Nations and highlights current global challenges to safe learning.
For the exact theme of 2025, please refer to upcoming official UN announcements. Past themes have focused on protecting learning in emergencies, safe schools for all, and ending attacks on education.
5. What is considered an attack on education?
An attack on education refers to any threat, violence, or interference that harms students, teachers, educational staff, or educational institutions, particularly in conflict zones.
Examples include:
- Bombing or destruction of schools
- Use of schools for military purposes
- Kidnapping or harming students and teachers
- Denying access to education based on conflict or gender
6. What is the Safe Schools Declaration?
The Safe Schools Declaration is a political commitment endorsed by countries worldwide to protect education from attack during armed conflicts and to ensure safe learning environments.
Main points:
- Launched in 2015 by Norway and Argentina
- Promotes guidelines to prevent military use of schools
- Supports victims and collects data about attacks on education
7. How can schools and individuals participate in this day?
Schools and individuals can support the International Day to Protect Education from Attack by raising awareness and taking action. Some impactful ways include:
- Organizing special assemblies, discussions, or poster contests
- Sharing stories and quotes on social media using key hashtags
- Hosting webinars or awareness walks
- Displaying banners and distributing educational materials
8. Are there any famous quotes for International Day to Protect Education from Attack?
Several international leaders and organizations have shared powerful quotes highlighting the importance of protecting education. Notable examples include:
- "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." – Nelson Mandela
- "No child should ever fear for their life while at school." – UNESCO
- "Protecting education is protecting our future." – UNICEF
9. What are some activities to observe International Day to Protect Education from Attack?
Observing this day involves activities that spread awareness and advocate for safe education. Participating activities can include:
- Creating posters or art displays about education safety
- Hosting essay, speech, or quiz competitions
- Attending online events led by UNESCO or UNICEF
- Sharing data and statistics on attacks from the GCPEA Education Under Attack Report
10. Which organizations support International Day to Protect Education from Attack?
Several major international organizations support this global day to protect and promote safe education in conflict zones. Chief supporters include:
- United Nations (UN)
- UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization)
- UNICEF (United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund)
- GCPEA (Global Coalition to Protect Education from Attack)
