We would like to point out an interesting project that has been giving pupils in Europe the opportunity to network for a long time, to work together on problems and solutions and thus to strengthen their own democracy and society in general: the Democratic Schools Network. This network consists of schools in Council of Europe member States that can demonstrate multiple and systematic collective efforts to build and sustain a democratic culture, including and involving all students of all backgrounds, nationalities and beliefs in an age-appropriate way.
The Council of Europe has consistently focused on education as being a central element in societies to promote and protect its core principles: human rights, democracy and the rule of law. Through numerous recommendations, initiatives and activities, the Council of Europe has emphasised the need to strengthen school practices contributing to the development of students’ competences that are needed to participate effectively in a culture of democracy. The Council of Europe has attached great importance to the democratic operation of schools, supported and safeguarded by appropriate provisions of legal and organisational frameworks, but also largely depending on the methods used and the efforts made by every particular school community. Schools are considered to play a crucial role in building and cultivating democratic values among their students starting from the very young ages. As pedagogy scholars have well documented, values are transmitted to children mostly through experience, participation and the example of adults. To learn more about the network and its achievements, visit:
www.coe.int/en/web/campaign-free-to-speak-safe-to-learn/democratic-schools-network
