1 of 10

Respect for human rights as a basic requirement for the functioning of education in the European Union

Group 410, 4 course

Specialization: 035.041 Philology. Germanic languages and literatures (translation inclusive), first language-English

2 of 10

Plan

  • 1.Introduction
  • 2.Basic principles of human rights in the EU
  • 3. Respect for human rights in education
  • 4.The role of education in promoting respect for human rights
  • 5.EU programs and initiatives on education and human rights
  • 6.The influence of respect for human rights on the development of society
  • 7. Conclusion.

3 of 10

Introduction

  • Promoting respect for these rights and freedoms in the process of learning and education is a fundamental principle of human rights education. But before discussing what human rights education is and how widely it is applied, it is necessary to explain what "these rights and freedoms" are that are the direct subject of such education. So let us begin.

4 of 10

Basic principles of human rights in the EU�

  • European legal doctrine mainly studies the criteria for classifying general principles of EU law. Thus, W. Kearns, depending on the source of origin, divides "principles of law common to all Member States" into four groups: 1) general principles derived from the nature of Community law; 2) those common to the legal order of several Member States; 3) fundamental human rights; 4) general principles of international law T. Hartley, based on a broad interpretation of the concept of general principles of law, among the most important of them are fundamental human rights, legal certainty (or legal security), legitimate expectations, the right to be heard, legal professional privilege (the right to confidential exchange of information between a lawyer and his client).
  • The general principles on which the European Union is based are the principle of freedom, democracy, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, and the principle of the rule of law (§ 1 of Article 6 of the Treaty on European Union). The status of general principles is given to the principle of proportionality, equality, legal certainty, and procedural principles. Special principles of law emphasize the peculiarities of legal regulation in certain areas of public life and are applied within certain branches and institutions of law. The principles that determine the relationship between the EU legal system and the legal systems of the Member States are not included in the system of EU law principles.
  • As you know, such principles include the principle of the rule of EU law and the principle of direct effect of EU law. The principle of the supremacy of EU law means that the rules of this legal system have greater legal force than the rules of the legal systems of the Member States. The jurisdictional bodies of the Member States: a) in case of conflicts between the EU law and national law, make decisions using the sources of EU law; b) interpret the norms of domestic law in accordance with the norms of EU law; c) in case of conflicts between the current EU legislation and the founding treaties of this organization, suspend the judicial process and send a request to the Court of Justice of the EU. If the EU Court of Justice finds an EU legislative act invalid, national courts decide the case on the basis of the founding treaties.

5 of 10

Respect for human rights in education

  • In today's world, education plays a key role in shaping values and attitudes towards human rights. Respect for human rights in education defines our society and contributes to the creation of a harmonious and fair environment. Let us consider important aspects of respect for human rights in educational institutions and their impact on modern society.
  • Human rights are fundamental and inalienable aspects of the dignity of every person. In the field of education, respect for these rights begins with the realization of their meaning and importance. Educational institutions have a role to play in fostering a conscious attitude towards human rights, educating citizens who respect and protect these rights in all areas of life.
  • One of the key aspects is inclusion and diversity in education. Cultural diversity and respect for different points of view should be accepted as the norm. The educational process should create opportunities to learn and understand different cultures, traditions and beliefs. This promotes tolerance and mutual understanding in society.
  • In addition, the active role of students and teachers in shaping the educational process is important to ensure respect for human rights. Dialogue and openness help create a climate of respect where every voice counts.
  • In conclusion, it is worth noting that respect for human rights in education is of great importance to society as a whole. It contributes to the formation of citizens who understand the importance and necessity of respecting and protecting the rights of every individual, regardless of their race, religion, gender or social status. Respect for human rights in education is a key step in building a harmonious and just society.

6 of 10

The role of education in promoting respect for human rights

  • Human rights are fundamental values of the modern world. These rights are recognized as universal and inalienable, and have become widely accepted through international documents such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
  • Education plays a key role in creating awareness and understanding of human rights. Through education, students learn about the history of human rights struggles and current standards. Information provided through education helps people understand the importance of these rights and how they differ from other aspects of society.
  • Education contributes to the creation of a tolerant society where people respect the rights and dignity of others regardless of their race, religion, gender, orientation, or other characteristics. School and university curricula provide opportunities to discuss issues of equality and inclusion, raising awareness of the importance of these principles.
  • Education also encourages students and learners to think critically about societal issues, including human rights violations. It teaches how to analyze situations, identify shortcomings, and propose solutions. It develops critical thinking skills and a willingness to act in the face of inequality and injustice.
  • Educated citizens are more likely to participate in civic life and the fight for human rights. Education equips them with the knowledge and skills needed to participate in democratic processes, support human rights organizations, and promote change for the better.
  • Education helps to create awareness of global human rights challenges and issues. It teaches about the global nature of human rights and stimulates international cooperation to protect and promote them.
  • Education is a key tool in fostering respect for human rights and in combating human rights violations in society. It promotes conscious and tolerant citizenship, develops critical thinking skills and supports civic engagement. Education is an important component of any society that respects and protects human rights.

7 of 10

EU programs and initiatives on education and human rights

  • The European Union is committed to supporting education and human rights, recognizing them as important components of modern society. EU activities in these areas are based on numerous programs and initiatives aimed at achieving the following goals:
  • Erasmus+: The Erasmus+ program is one of the EU's key initiatives in the field of education. It promotes the exchange of students, teachers and youth between countries, supports joint projects in the field of education and develops intercultural cooperation.
  • Support for education in the developing world: The EU funds programs and projects aimed at improving access to education in countries where it is most needed. This includes providing grants and technical assistance.
  • Protection of human rights: The EU actively promotes the protection of human rights in Europe and beyond. EU initiatives include emphasizing the importance of the rule of law, combating discrimination, and supporting civil society.
  • Inclusive education: The EU works to create conditions for inclusive education, providing access to learning for all, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity or other characteristics.
  • Strengthening democracy and the rule of law: The EU promotes democracy and the rule of law in its partner countries by providing support in the form of advice, training and financial assistance.

8 of 10

The influence of respect for human rights on the development of society

  • Human rights are like armour: they protect you; they are like rules, because they tell you how you can behave; and they are like judges, because you can appeal to them. They are abstract – like emotions; and like emotions, they belong to everyone and they exist no matter what happens.
  • They are like nature because they can be violated; and like the spirit because they cannot be destroyed. Like time, they treat us all in the same way – rich and poor, old and young, white and black, tall and short. They offer us respect, and they charge us to treat others with respect. Like goodness, truth and justice, we may sometimes disagree about their definition, but we recognise them when we see them violated.
  • Since we live in the 21st century, we are clearly familiar with the concept of cultural society, respect for each other and multifaceted development in absolutely all directions. The process of globalization has encompassed all of humanity, the main goal of which is the respectful attitude of cultures, their acceptance and respect, tolerance and mutual understanding.
  • Respect for human rights is one of the leading movements in the development of society, because we must understand that if we want to step into a bright future together, we must understand, hear, listen and, most importantly, respect each other's principles.
  • So, we can safely conclude that the influence of respect for human rights is very important for the development of society, we can even clearly say that without respect for human rights, our development would not exist, because respect is the driving force in the social circle.

9 of 10

Conclusion

  • The promotion of respect for human rights and the integration of these principles into education play a crucial role in shaping a just and harmonious society. Human rights are the cornerstone of modern civilization, ensuring that every individual is treated with dignity, fairness, and equality. These rights transcend cultural, ethnic, and national boundaries, uniting humanity in a shared commitment to upholding fundamental freedoms.
  • The European Union recognizes the significance of education and human rights, implementing various programs and initiatives to foster inclusive, tolerant, and informed citizens. From Erasmus+ to support for education in developing countries, the EU actively engages in efforts to advance these ideals.
  • Respect for human rights in education helps individuals understand the value and importance of these rights and empowers them to be proactive in protecting and promoting them. In an educational environment that embraces diversity and encourages critical thinking, students develop the skills and knowledge necessary to engage in the fight against inequality and injustice.
  • As we move further into the 21st century, the need for respect for human rights is more pressing than ever. The process of globalization underscores the importance of cultural acceptance, tolerance, and mutual understanding. Ultimately, respect for human rights is not just a legal or philosophical concept; it is the driving force behind the positive evolution of our societies. It is a commitment to creating a world where every individual's rights are safeguarded and upheld, regardless of their background or identity.

10 of 10