Global Education - Learning for our Global Society

Global Education is an educational perspective which arises from the fact that contemporary people live and interact in an increasingly globalised world. This makes it crucial for education to give learners the opportunity and competence to reflect and share their own point of view and role within a global, interconnected society, as well as understand and discuss complex relationship of common social, ecological, political and economic issues, so as to derive new ways of thinking and acting.

There are a couple of definitions of Global Education and various international documents are related to the development of the concept of Global Education:

"Education shall be directed to the full development of the human personality and to the strengthening of respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. It shall promote understanding, tolerance and friendship among all nations, racial or religious groups."

UNESCO 1974: Recommendation concerning Education for International Understanding

"Education should be recognized as a process by which human beings and societies can reach their fullest potential. Education is critical for promoting sustainable development and improving the capacity of the people to address environmental and development issues."

UNCEP 1992: Agenda 21, Chap. 36: Promoting Education Public Awareness and Training

"Global Education is education that opens people's eyes and minds to the realities of the world, and awakens them to bring about a world of greater justice, equity and human rights for all."

Maastricht Global Education Decleration 2002