The right to education: what’s at stake in Afghanistan? A 20-year review

This report examines Afghanistan’s educational progress over the past 20 years, addressing both achievements and ongoing challenges amid significant political changes in the country. It compares Afghanistan’s education development with that of seven other South Asian countries.Key Findings:

• Current Status: Afghanistan significantly lags behind its neighboring countries on most development and education indicators. Despite these challenges, its educational progress over the past two decades has been relatively swift compared to other South Asian countries.
• Potential for Progress: The report suggests that with effective interventions and a commitment to educational rights and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 on education, Afghanistan can continue to advance its educational development.

Sections of the Report:

1. Broader Development Context:
   • Analyzes socio-economic factors affecting education, including demographic, economic, and employment trends.
2. Education Indicators:
   • Reviews the evolution of education indicators over two decades and identifies persistent challenges. Although progress has been relatively fast, there is a need for sustained efforts to address educational underdevelopment and improve the education system.
3. Legal and Policy Frameworks:
   • Examines Afghanistan’s education policies and legal frameworks in the context of international standards. Highlights critical areas affecting the right to education for all, with a focus on girls, women, and vulnerable populations, including internally displaced persons and disadvantaged groups.
4. Future Prospects:
   • Outlines potential state obligations, conditions, and actions required to achieve international education development targets, with recommendations for collaboration with the international community.