Introduction
In times of humanitarian crises, a child’s right to quality education remains non-negotiable. The disruption of education has far-reaching consequences on the well-being and future prospects of young people. Education in emergencies is a vital response to ensure that children caught in crises continue learning and developing.
The European Union (EU) has a comprehensive policy for education in emergencies and protracted crises, emphasizing protection, mental health support, and holistic interventions. This article explores what education in emergencies entails, its importance, and how the EU is contributing to this essential cause.
What is Education in Emergencies?
Education in emergencies refers to the provision of formal and non-formal education to children and youth affected by crises such as conflicts, natural disasters, or other humanitarian emergencies. The goal is to minimize disruptions to their learning and development, safeguard their rights, and support their physical and emotional well-being.
The EU’s policy on education in emergencies focuses on protecting learning environments from attack, providing support to teachers, and creating safe learning spaces. It combines education with mental health, psychosocial support, and essential services such as water, sanitation, healthcare, and disaster preparedness.
Key Elements of Education in Emergencies
- Safe Learning Spaces: Ensuring safe environments where children can continue their education.
- Teacher Support: Training, coaching, and development to help teachers handle crisis-affected students.
- Protection Measures: Preventing and responding to gender-based violence, and providing psychological support for trauma-affected children.
- Holistic Approach: Integrating education with mental health, psychosocial support, and basic needs like healthcare and water.
Why is Education in Emergencies Important?
Education is more than just learning; it is a lifeline for children caught in crises. It helps restore a sense of normalcy and safety, allowing children to regain control of their lives. Without education, children face a greater risk of exploitation, forced labor, early marriage, and becoming victims of violence.
Benefits of Education in Crises
- Normalcy and Stability: Education offers a routine that brings psychological comfort and a sense of normality.
- Future Prospects: It equips children with essential skills to rebuild their lives and communities after a crisis.
- Peace and Stability: Education is one of the most effective ways to invest in peacebuilding, stability, and long-term economic growth.
Despite its critical role, education remains one of the most underfunded sectors in humanitarian aid, receiving only around 3% of global humanitarian funding.
The EU’s Role in Supporting Education in Emergencies
The EU has emerged as a leading donor and policy shaper in education during emergencies. By integrating education into its humanitarian response, the EU ensures a holistic approach that addresses both immediate and long-term needs of children affected by crises.
Policy Priorities
- Partnerships: Collaborating with humanitarian organizations, governments, and local communities for effective education delivery.
- Access and Inclusion: Promoting inclusive education that leaves no child behind, especially marginalized groups like girls and refugees.
- Education for Peace: Using education as a tool for promoting peace, stability, and protection.
- Quality Education: Ensuring that education provided in emergencies meets global quality standards and produces positive learning outcomes.
The EU’s focus on girls’ education, in particular, has been critical, as crises often disproportionately affect female students.
Funding and Actions
The EU has significantly increased its funding for education in emergencies, with over €1 billion spent between 2015 and 2023. In 2024, the EU has set aside an additional €157 million to continue supporting children affected by humanitarian crises.
The EU supports various initiatives, including accelerated education programs, teacher training, life skills training, and psychosocial support. These actions not only ensure continued education but also provide crucial protection against exploitation and trauma.
Tackling the Challenges
Attacks on Education
One of the most alarming threats to education during crises is direct attacks on schools, students, and teachers. In recent years, there have been more than 3,000 attacks on educational institutions, with a marked increase in conflict zones like Ukraine, Myanmar, and Burkina Faso.
Refugees and Displaced Children
Children in refugee camps and displaced communities are particularly vulnerable to educational disruption. Despite efforts to enroll them in school, only 77% of refugee children are in primary education, and just 31% make it to secondary school.
Conclusion: A Lifeline for Crisis-Affected Children
Education in emergencies is essential to giving children caught in humanitarian crises a fighting chance for a better future. Through its policies and funding, the EU is playing a pivotal role in ensuring that millions of children worldwide continue to learn, grow, and thrive, despite the chaos around them.