Human rights education for youth, in both formal and non-formal settings, promotes a shared sense of humanity and fosters a common understanding that all human beings are equally deserving of dignity, respect and justice. It empowers youth to fulfil their role as active citizens, to take action and uphold their human rights and those of others, and to participate meaningfully in public affairs and democratic decision-making processes.
In recognition of this, the United Nations Member States launched the fourth phase (2020–2024) of the World Programme for Human Rights Education to advance human rights education programming for youth at the national level. This focus also contributes to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly Goal 4 on Education and target 4.7, which touches upon the aims of education.