Global Citizenship Education in European Multicultural Contexts: Opportunities and Challenges

Abstract

Deep societal changes resulting from globalization, increased cultural and ethnic diversity and the expansion of ICT (information and communication technology) have generated interest in the concept of global citizenship resulting in a growing body of literature on global citizenship education (GCE). Despite its attractiveness, GCE appears nevertheless conceptually fragile and difficult to implement in national contexts. This chapter provides a comparative perspective on conceptions and current challenges for citizenship education in three European countries: France, Switzerland and England. We analyze how contents associated with global dimensions are integrated into educational policies and curricula, thereby highlighting the similarities and differences between contexts. We illustrate how France and England have brought citizenship education and the promotion of 'national values' to the forefront of the political agenda, with the specific aim of preventing radicalization. Finally, we present considerations for the operationalization of GCE and argue that global citizenship may provide an opportunity to value multiple identities.