The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries have reiterated their commitment to protecting and promoting the right to education as a fundamental element for progress in teaching, scientific research, and academia. This statement was delivered by Qatar’s Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva, HE Hend bint Abdalrahman Al Muftah, on behalf of the GCC during the 56th session of the Human Rights Council. The GCC emphasized the need to safeguard the right to education against challenges posed by the digitization of education, particularly in the realm of artificial intelligence.
The GCC countries have implemented various measures to support scientific research, including providing financial, technical, and technological incentives, as well as continuous support and development in this field. These efforts have allowed academic and research institutions in GCC countries to achieve advanced positions in terms of the quality of scientific research and teaching. The GCC also stressed the importance of addressing the risks associated with the harmful use of artificial intelligence, which can pose a threat to scientific research.
The GCC countries denounced the systematic targeting of educational institutions in Gaza by the occupying power, which has resulted in approximately 625,000 children being deprived of education for more than eight months due to the ongoing war. Almost 90% of schools and universities in Gaza have been destroyed, further exacerbating the situation. The GCC called on the international community to take immediate action to end the conflict in Gaza and provide the necessary support for Palestinian students to continue their education, as education is closely linked to human rights.
In light of the grave situation in Gaza, the GCC countries have expressed their solidarity with Palestinian students and condemned the ongoing targeting of educational institutions by the occupying power. The GCC highlighted the urgent need for the international community to intervene and put an end to the brutal war in Gaza, ensuring that Palestinian students have access to education and can continue their academic journey. Education is a basic human right, and the GCC emphasized the importance of protecting and supporting this right for all individuals, regardless of their circumstances.
The GCC countries emphasized the importance of ensuring access to education for all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances. They highlighted the need to address the challenges posed by the digitization of education, particularly in the field of artificial intelligence, and the risks associated with its harmful use. The GCC called on the international community to take action to end the conflict in Gaza and provide support for Palestinian students to continue their education, reaffirming their commitment to protecting and promoting the right to education as a crucial element for progress and development in the region.
In conclusion, the GCC countries have reaffirmed their deep belief in the importance of protecting and promoting the right to education, emphasizing the need to address challenges posed by digitization and artificial intelligence. The GCC condemned the targeting of educational institutions in Gaza and called for international action to end the conflict and support Palestinian students. Education is a fundamental human right, and the GCC countries are committed to ensuring that all individuals have access to quality education, regardless of their circumstances.
