The Dakar Framework for Action

This comprehensive document sets out the "Dakar Framework for Action, Education for All: Meeting our Collective Commitments," adopted at the World Education Forum held in Dakar, Senegal from 26-28 April 2000. The Dakar Framework for Action is based on the most extensive evaluation of education ever undertaken, the Education for All (EFA) 2000 Assessment. Called for by the World Conference of Education for All, the Assessment produced a detailed analysis of the state of basic education around the world.

The commitment referred to in the title is that of pursuing "a broad-based strategy for ensuring that the basic learning needs of every child, youth and adult are met within a generation and sustained thereafter". In order to meet this commitment, a learning environment safe from disasters needs to be provided.

The document calls for "special technical support" to be provided by the international community to "those countries with significant challenges, such as complex crises or natural disasters." (para.16) Elsewhere, signatories to the document recognize that "conflicts, instability and natural disasters take their toll on education and are a major barrier towards attaining Education for All" . States parties commit to restoring learning opportunities in affected places so that education may take place "in secure and friendly environments, and to reconstruct destroyed or damaged education systems". (para. 57)