50th session of the Human Rights Council
Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the right to education
2 June 2022
Nordic – Baltic Statement, delivered by Ambassador Kirsti Kauppi, Permanent Representative of Finland
I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. We thank the Special Rapporteur for her report.
Digital learning has been growing in importance, further accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Digitalization should be used to promote the right to inclusive and equitable quality education for all. We must ensure that digital technologies do not discriminate against anyone. Addressing the digital divide is essential, including its gender and disability dimensions.
Our countries want to promote a safe digital space for all. Everyone should be able to use their voices without the threat of violence, harassment or hate. Women and girls, minorities, including sexual minorities, and persons in vulnerable situations are particularly exposed to being subjected to these online human rights violations and abuses. We need to ensure that education systems equip young persons to recognize misinformation.
Ms. Special Rapporteur, what should be done to ensure that all women and girls enjoy full and equal access to quality digital learning opportunities?
Thank you.