Education has a fundamental role in building a culture of respect for the law and to prevent crime and corruption. Therefore, it is important to begin this learning early in a child’s academic journey, so that they are aware of the global problems and shared challenges that undermine the rule of law and affect our societies. This, in turn, will help children understand they can bring about change and contribute to a more sustainable, inclusive, just and peaceful society.
Below, you can find educational materials aimed at teachers and professionals who work with children aged from 6 to 12 years old in formal or informal education environments.
The lesson plans are complemented by The Zorbs video and comic book series, which tell the story of an imaginary planet and its inhabitants who overcome a range of challenges thanks to various core values and skills. The series have been designed as a fun yet informative educational tool and covers issues related to ethics and integrity, human rights, gender and justice.
UNODC and UNESCO jointly published two handbooks, one for primary and one for secondary schools, to help teachers empower their students. The handbooks assist teachers in developing students' critical thinking and empathy - skills which often do not feature prominently in school curricula. The interactive lessons build students' awareness of their rights and break down misconceptions surrounding law and justice. Exercises, games and story-telling help bring social issues to life, prompting students to take a moral stand.
Some of the lessons make reference to history and local culture, building students' understanding of how national laws evolve and societies learn to resolve conflict and live together. Other lessons equip students with the skills they need to navigate the digital age. The handbooks' activities are rooted in Global Citizenship Education, an approach which can help transform young people into agents of change who are able to constructively and responsibly engage in society.