Religious Diversity and Education for Democratic Citizenship: The Contribution of the Council of Europe

Moral Education and Development

“…This pioneering role of the UK fits into an interesting broader historical trend that Jackson (2010) hints at (while, it is true, drawing attention to a 'danger of over-simplification'), viz., that it is 'in the north, that most research and development has been done so far in the field of religious education ' (p. 1124). This reminded me of an observation on the relation between religion, schooling and learning in Europe in early modernity (cf.…”

“…Jackson (2010) argues that, 'in integrating religious education and citizenship education, pedagogies that give voice to children, thus promoting "differentiated citizenship", should be favoured' (p. 1143). That is not only a matter of content (though it is that too: some representation of religious plurality is necessary), but it is essentially also a matter of values and of classroom methods and teaching and learning styles.…”

The development and dissemination of Council of Europe policy on education about religions and non-religious convictions

“…The formerly held view of leaving aside issues of the study of religions in public education -because religion was felt to belong only to the private sphere -was revised. The events of September the 11th, 2001 in the US provided a catalyst for change (Jackson 2010). The following discussion of the Council of Europe's work in the religion and education field is written from an insider perspective and in a personal capacity (the author has been involved with the Council of Europe's work on religion and education since its inception in 2002), and aims to explain the Council of Europe's rationale, and the processes involved in developing the Signposts document, rather than to engage in a critical discussion.…”

Inclusive Study of Religions and World Views in Schools: Signposts from the Council of Europe

“…The earlier view of excluding the study of religions in public education-because religion was felt to belong only to the private sphere-was reconsidered. The events of September 11, 2001 in the USA were an impetus for change (Jackson, 2010).…”