In a context marked by growing social polarization, disinformation, and hate speech, “Building Trust in the Face of Hate. Key Principles for Advancing Peace Education” highlights education as a fundamental tool for strengthening democratic coexistence, preventing discrimination, and promoting more inclusive societies.

Produced by UN Etxea, the publication summarizes the main findings of the report “Building trust in the face of hate: international framework for peace education and its application in the Basque Country”, offering an accessible overview of the challenges and opportunities currently facing peace education.

The document is based on a central idea: peace cannot be understood merely as the absence of conflict, but rather as the active construction of relationships grounded in human dignity, equality, justice, and mutual respect. In this regard, it draws on a range of international references, including the UNESCO Recommendation on Education for Peace, Human Rights and Sustainable Development, adopted by the Organization’s Member States in 2023.

Among the report’s main findings are the need to place human rights at the centre of education policies; promote social and emotional learning; strengthen digital and media literacy to counter disinformation; foster arts and cultural education as a tool for social cohesion; and engage the entire educational community in building a culture of peace.

The publication also emphasizes that Euskadi has a solid foundation for advancing in this field thanks to the convergence between international frameworks and various educational initiatives focused on memory, coexistence, and human rights. It also highlights the incorporation of competencies related to democratic citizenship, critical thinking, diversity, and digital citizenship into the Basque educational curriculum.

The publication concludes that trust does not emerge spontaneously; rather, it is built through education, public policies, and experiences of coexistence. In the face of hate, polarization, and disinformation, peace education stands out as one of the most effective tools for strengthening democratic, inclusive, and resilient societies.

The full report and its summary document are intended for teachers, educational institutions, public administrations, social organizations, and all those committed to promoting human rights and a culture of peace.

Summary Report: Building Trust in the Face Of Hate. Key Principles for Advancing Peace Education.

Full Report: Building trust in the face of hate: international framework for peace education and its application in the Basque Country.