Investing in education is investing in democracy and peace

In a world where conflict and instability are on the rise, it is not only the right to education that is under pressure, but also the foundations of democracy and peace. From Ukraine to the Sahel, and from the Gaza Strip to the Democratic Republic of Congo: education systems are being disrupted and millions of children and young people risk being left behind.

On Thursday 28 May 2026, Educaid.be organised the international conference “Education in Times of Turmoil – Ensuring the continuity and protection of learning for stability, development and peace”, both in Brussels and online. The day before – Thursday 27 May – Enabel organised the youth side event entitled “Education in times of crisis: Youth speak out!”

The conference brought together policymakers, NGOs and international experts – including EU Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management, Hadja Lahbib, Director-General for Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Aid, Heidy Rombouts, and Palestinian Deputy Minister of Education and Higher Education, Dr. Nafieh Assaf – to exchange views on how education can contribute to stability, resilience and lasting peace.

Investing in education is investing in democracy and peace

The consequences of the current crises go far beyond temporary learning setbacks. According to Educaid.be, an entire generation risks falling into structural learning delays, with an impact on social cohesion, security and stability worldwide, but also in our own societies.

Education plays a crucial role in strengthening democratic societies. Access to quality and inclusive education enables young people to think critically, actively participate in society and contribute to peaceful decision-making. By offering young people prospects and opportunities, education can break the cycles of instability.

Investing in education also pays off economically. According to UNICEF, every dollar invested in education generates an average of 20 dollars in GDP. The OECD further emphasises that education contributes to higher tax revenues and lower social spending. It is therefore not merely a social cost, but a strategic investment in stability, growth and future prospects.

Falling resources, rising needs

Yet this growing need stands in stark contrast to a decline in available resources for education and international cooperation. The gap between needs and available resources calls for renewed commitments and collaborations that can flexibly adapt to a rapidly changing context. Innovative partnerships and tailored solutions, with particular attention to the protection of students, teachers and schools in conflict zones, and a continuation of the commitment to the Safe Schools Declaration, are crucial.

Youth voices matter

Young people are not only asking to be included — they are already shaping solutions. This week their message is clear: mental health support, life skills, digital access, and a real seat in decision-making — not as symbols, but as partners. And their voices did not stop at recommendations. Through a powerful slam performance, they turned lived experience into a call to action – reminind us that education is not only about learning, but also about dignity, hope and the power to shape the future.

Insights and solutions

During the conference, international speakers and education experts shared their insights and experiences. Several member organisations of Educaid.be, including Enabel, VVOB – education for development, UNICEF Belgium, Humanity & Inclusion and APEFE, demonstrated how challenges such as interrupted learning pathways, psychosocial needs, inclusion, the acquisition of basic skills and heightened risks for children and young people in vulnerable situations are being addressed around the world.

About Educaid.be

Educaid.be is the Belgian platform for education and development. The platform serves to strengthen, defend and support the education and training sector within Belgian international cooperation. More information: www.educaid.be

More information and the full programme

Press contact:
Marije van Breda – Educaid.be Coordinator
marije.vanbreda@educaid.be. +32 498 49 58 64

Jonathan Crickx – UNICEF Belgium Head of Communication
jcrickx@unicef.be

Guido Couck – Enabel Head of Communication
guido.couck@enabel.be