Paris, April 23 (QNA) - The Executive Board of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) unanimously adopted the International Action Plan to Protect Education from Attacks during its 224th session, in what was described as a first-of-its-kind step within international frameworks dedicated to safeguarding education in crisis contexts.

The Board strongly condemned attacks and threats targeting educational institutions, including schools and universities, affirming that such assaults constitute a serious violation of the right to education and directly affect the continuity of the educational process as well as the safety of students and teachers.

The adoption of this plan is considered an unprecedented foundational procedural step in developing an international system to protect education in crisis situations, enhancing global prevention and response capacities against attacks on educational institutions.

The Executive Board's work witnessed a pivotal role by the State of Qatar, which led effective diplomatic efforts that contributed to reaching this historic consensus, reaffirming its continued commitment to protecting the right to education at the international level.

This move comes as an extension of Qatar's humanitarian and development role in supporting global education, alongside international initiatives led by HH Chairperson of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development and Education Above All Foundation Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, which have made education a central priority in humanitarian and development work, particularly in conflict and crisis regions.

The Executive Board stressed that the adoption of this plan marks a turning point in international cooperation to protect education, calling on member states, UNESCO, and partners to strengthen coordination and provide the necessary support to ensure its effective and sustainable implementation. (QNA)