Cambodia Stresses Role of Human Rights Education in Promoting Peace at UN Panel

GENEVA, Sept 15, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia has highlighted the importance of human rights education in fostering peace, mutual respect and responsibility among young people, during a high‑level panel at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva. Uch Borom, Counsellor at Cambodia’s Permanent Mission to the UN Office in Geneva, delivered the statement at a session marking the 15th anniversary of the UN Declaration on Human Rights Education and Training. He said human rights education was vital in helping children and youth understand their rights and responsibilities, while promoting peaceful coexistence and respect for the rule of law. Cambodia also called on the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and partners to strengthen technical assistance for developing countries. The panel formed part of the Council’s 63rd session, which runs from Sept 7 to Oct 7. The declaration, adopted by the UN General Assembly in December 2011, affirms that human rights education and training are essential for promoting universal respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. It covers education about, through and for human rights, and calls on states and relevant actors to develop programmes and ensure accessibility. The 15th‑anniversary discussion provided an opportunity for UN member states and participants to review progress in human rights education, including its role in schools, youth programmes and professional training. Cambodia’s intervention underscored the country’s emphasis on education as a tool for peacebuilding and social cohesion, aligning with broader UN efforts to integrate human rights learning into national systems.