Statement CCI
Geneva, UN HRC, Henk Jan van Schothorst:
"I deliver this statement on behalf of Christian Council International/Transatlantic Christian Council.
We thank the Special Rapporteur for her report.
The importance of education cannot be overemphasized. The Bible states that education, as a primary responsibility for parents, is an invaluable gift from God.[1]
Article 26 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights further underscores the right to education. Including the role of parents in choosing the kind of education their children receive. Christian educational institutions, whether public, private, or home schools, therefore uphold parents’ right to choose education consistent with their beliefs.
Interlinked with this right is also the right to select textbooks based on Christian values and the interests of the child.
This especially applies to sexuality education. While the report calls on States to immediately implement Comprehensive Sexuality Education, no such obligation exists under international law. Schools and States should therefore retain the freedom to adopt alternative curricula, reflecting Christian convictions on marriage, abstinence and sexuality.
We therefore respectfully urge governments and the Special Rapporteur to uphold the religious freedom of educational institutions.
Thank you".
Web TV 8th Meeting - 59th Session of Human Rights Council
[1] Deuteronomy 11:19; Proverbs 2:6; Proverbs 22:6.