Our Approach
GCPEA engages in a number of diverse but inter-connected initiatives to advocate for stronger protections for education institutions, their students, and staff.
The Safe Schools Declaration
The Safe Schools Declaration is an inter-governmental political commitment that provides countries the opportunity to express support for protecting education from attack during times of armed conflict; the importance of the continuation of education during war; and the implementation of concrete measures to deter the military use of schools.
Education under Attack
Education under Attack is the flagship report of the Global Coalition to Protect Education from Attack. The 2020 edition of the report, which was launched in July 2020 is the fifth in the series, and profiles 37 countries that experienced at least 10 attacks on education in the last five years. It builds on two studies published by UNESCO in 2007 and 2010 and a third study published by GCPEA in 2014.
Through its work, GCPEA seeks to:
Strengthen
Monitoring and Reporting
Timely and accurate monitoring and reporting of attacks on education is crucial for responding to attacks, for holding perpetrators accountable, and for seeking to prevent attacks from occurring in the first place.
Protect
Women and Girls from Attack
GCPEA has conducted research on the specific impact on women and girls and provides guidance on how to better protect them from attacks on education.
Restrict
Military Use of Education Institutions
The use of schools and universities by armed forces and armed groups for military purposes during situations of armed conflict can disrupt or completely deny education in both the immediate and long terms.
Promote
Field-Based Responses
Policies and programs aim to protect civilian lives and the right to education for all; limit damage to school buildings; ensure continuity in education when attacks occur; and prevent future attacks.