Interactive Dialogue with Koumbou Boy Barry, Special Rapporteur on the Right to Education
Statement by the Delegation of the United States of America
UN Human Rights Council – 47th Session
As Delivered by James Bischoff
Geneva, June 24, 2021
Thank you, Special Rapporteur Barry.
The United States is working diligently on solutions that maximize safe, equitable, and inclusive access to quality education for all individuals who want to learn.
The U.S. has long championed international basic education and is the largest bilateral funder of international basic education. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, USAID rapidly adapted education programming in over 50 countries. Worldwide, USAID reached over 24 million learners in 2020, through various in-person and distance-learning approaches.
We believe that food security, a conducive learning environment, and physical safety are vital pillars for creating an equitable space where children and adults can learn. We must ensure that measures to maximize education support the needs of the most marginalized, especially women and girls, children in crisis, and persons with disabilities.
Q: What actions will you take to support the educational needs of the most marginalized individuals who want to learn?