UNESCO’s Futures of Education IdeasLAB is looking for short think pieces that reflect on the future of international cooperation in education. It is a particularly important question in the light of recent changes in global governance, multilateralism and international cooperation in education.
Multilateralism is in a moment of deep transition. The international system that optimistically pledged its commitments to ‘Education for All’ in 1990 appears less recognizable today. The frameworks and shared vision that once provided firm foundations for international cooperation in education have frayed, and in mid-2025 they appear more fragile than in past decades. At the same time, new imaginaries and solidarities offer opportunities to reimagine multilateralism, international cooperation and governance at all levels. How can we think about this present moment? What has changed, and what trajectories – both promising and perilous – appear ahead?
UNESCO welcomes contributions from anyone who engages with these topics – including:
- researchers
- policy makers
- futures thinkers
- government and non-government organisations
- teachers
- young people
- anyone!
How to send your think piece
Length: Maximum 1500 words
Send by: November 10 via this web form
Language: Submissions in English or French.
Full call for Think Pieces and submission details in English
L’appel complet et les modalités de soumission sont ci-jointe en français
Ideas LAB aims to spark dialogue and debate on emerging issues and fundamental questions concerning the futures of education, learning and knowledge in a world of growing complexity and uncertainty.
For more information contact futuresofeducation@unesco.org (ATTN: Ideas LAB).