Concern and rejection of the bill in Paraguay that prohibits the promotion of gender perspective in educational institutions
El CLACSO Working Group on Educational Policies and the Right to EducationThe group, comprised of a hundred researchers from various countries, publicly expresses its absolute rejection of the Bill that some sectors are promoting in Paraguay in order to prohibit the promotion and teaching of the gender perspective in educational institutions.
Likewise, it wishes to express its support for the position disseminated by the Network for the Right to Education in Paraguay, of which we highlight some of its main points.
We are deeply concerned about the alarming situation of gender-based violence in this country, reflected in the high rates of femicide and violence suffered by women in different areas of society. The sexual violence affecting girls within the family is especially troubling, highlighting the urgent need to promote comprehensive sexuality education in families in order to combat gender-based violence at its root causes.
We believe the proposed law conflicts with fundamental principles of equality, freedom of expression, religious freedom, and the right to a comprehensive and non-discriminatory education, enshrined in the Paraguayan Constitution. Prohibiting education from a gender perspective would limit debate and the promotion of values essential for a just and equitable society.
Gender equality is a global priority supported by UNESCO, an organization of which Paraguay is a member and a signatory to its international agreements. It is essential to pay special attention to gender equality throughout the education system, addressing multiple aspects and dimensions such as access, content, contexts and teaching and learning practices, educational outcomes, and the relationship with the world of work.
Therefore, we urgently call on the authorities to reconsider this proposal and promote gender-sensitive education that contributes to eradicating violence and building a more just and equal society for all people.
We urge the Paraguayan government to make decisions that promote inclusive education and respect for the rights of all people, without distinction of gender, for the benefit of our entire society.
August 4th, 2023
CLACSO Working Group
Educational policies and the right to education
This text expresses the position of Working Group on Educational Policies and the Right to Education and not necessarily that of the centers and institutions that make up the CLACSO international network, its Steering Committee or its Executive Secretariat.
