Fostering inclusive and non-discriminatory education

Education is a fundamental human right and it must be guaranteed without discrimination on any grounds. However, rather than promoting mutual understanding and a respect for diversity, the education policies and practices in BiH still reflect politically-driven ethno-national divisions nearly thirty years following the end of the conflict. This means that many children in BiH still face discriminatory practices and segregation in education today. It is a direct challenge to their right to education. In this regard, one of the key objectives of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (the Mission) is to strengthen and support the efforts of BiH education authorities to ensure non-discriminatory inclusive quality education for all children. Persistent discriminatory practices and segregated education risk deepening divisions, weakening social cohesion and public confidence, and undermining long-term stability in BiH. Strengthening inclusive policies, curricula, and teaching is essential to ensure all children can fully enjoy their right to education and contribute to a cohesive, peaceful society.