05/12/2025 Culture, Science, Education and Media
According to the Committee on Culture, Science, Education and Media, which met in Paris on 1 December, “learning and practising democracy must be a core political priority in the education system” in order to help young people gain trust in democracy and engage in democratic citizenship. By adopting the report by Luz Martínez Seijo (Spain, SOC), it recommended that member states develop comprehensive policies to ensure that schools can integrate socialisation, inclusion and well-being as core objectives, alongside academic achievement.
The committee called on states to adopt legislation or regulations aimed at promoting “harmonious living together” in schools and preventing bullying, discrimination and excessive social media exposure. With regard to methodologies, the adopted text also invites states to promote student-centred and interactive pedagogies.
Concerned about the situation of teachers, who have been severely affected by budget cuts in the education system, a lack of human resources, and inadequate pay and recognition for their work, the committee proposed a set of measures aimed at creating a supportive and enabling environment for teachers.
Finally, the committee recommended that the Committee of Ministers assist member states “in undertaking a strategic policy review, in line with the Council of Europe Education Strategy 2024-2030”.