Strengthening Human Rights Education with and Through Sport: ENGSO Youth Joins European Discussions in Budapest

The meeting served as a follow-up to the “Unleashing Human Rights” Forum held in December 2025 and provided an opportunity to reflect on current developments, identify future priorities, and strengthen cooperation in the field of human rights education.

Representing ENGSO Youth, Nikoleta Fiscarelli, Communication & Visuals Officer, participated in the discussions, bringing the perspective of the youth sport sector and highlighting the role that sport can play in promoting human rights, participation, inclusion, and democratic values among young people.

Throughout the meeting, participants explored how Human Rights Education can respond to the realities of rapidly changing societies and continue to empower young people as active citizens. Discussions reaffirmed the importance of HRE in fostering democratic participation, equality, inclusion, and respect for human dignity, particularly at a time when Europe is facing increasing polarisation, discrimination, social inequalities, and declining trust in democratic institutions.

A central theme of the meeting was the need to ensure that Human Rights Education remains accessible, relevant, and sustainable. Participants exchanged experiences on the use of educational tools and methodologies, including the Council of Europe’s Compass manual, while emphasising the importance of capacity-building, partnerships, and advocacy in strengthening communities of practice across Europe.

For ENGSO Youth, these discussions closely connect to ongoing work on Human Rights Education through Sport. Sport provides a unique environment where young people can experience values such as respect, equality, inclusion, participation, and fair play in practice. By combining non-formal education with sport and physical activity, organisations can create meaningful learning opportunities that help young people understand and defend human rights in their daily lives.

Participants also reflected on emerging challenges affecting young people, including the impact of artificial intelligence and digital technologies on human rights, climate change, and growing social inequalities. The discussions further highlighted the increasing connection between environmental issues and human rights, and the importance of equipping young people with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to navigate these challenges.

The meeting also marked the beginning of reflections on the 2027 review of the Council of Europe Charter on Education for Democratic Citizenship and Human Rights Education. Participants welcomed the opportunity to contribute to the review process and help ensure that the Charter continues to respond to the needs and realities of young people today.

ENGSO Youth will continue to work with the Council of Europe and its partners to strengthening Human Rights Education across Europe and looks forward to contributing to future discussions and initiatives.