Educational Pluralism in Europe: Where We Are and the Way Forward

Freedom and the right to education are foundational principles within the European Union’s constitutional framework. Educational pluralism, a way to organise education in which the government funds a wide variety of schools but holds all of them accountable for academic results, is recognised as essential for social mobility, equity, and individual development. However, this right faces increasing challenges in Europe, as ideological and economic pressures threaten both access and diversity in educational options. Legal instruments at both the international and European levels affirm parental rights and the autonomy of educational institutions; however, effective pluralism often requires supportive state intervention to ensure genuine parental and child choice. This report emphasises the necessity of legal and policy reforms that safeguard parental rights, foster alternative educational models, respect the autonomy of private schools, and guarantee access to core knowledge for all students. Balancing educational pluralism with common standards is crucial for safeguarding human rights and promoting democratic participation throughout Europe.

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