Where learners meet history: reaffirming the role of history education in the 21st century (2026)

History education: a cornerstone of democratic culture, intercultural dialogue and respect for human rights

As part of the intergovernmental programme on history education, the Education Department of the Council of Europe has launched a series of forums on key topics concerning history in the first quarter of the 21st century. The fourth forum was entitled “Where learners meet history: reaffirming the role of history education in the 21st century” and took place at the European Youth Centre Budapest in June 2025.

Discussions centered on the role of learners, examining the spaces and conditions in which they engage with history as well as the challenges they face. Participants explored a diverse range of topics, including textbooks and other educational resources, museum learning, digital literacy, archives and artificial intelligence. Keynote contributions addressed the distortion of historical narratives and the spread of disinformation in the context of a resurgence of nationalism and extremism, as well as the obligations of states and public authorities to protect and promote academic freedom, international co-operation and multiperspectival approaches to history education.

As we look forward into the 21st century, along with the challenges and opportunities it brings for Europe and the world, the forum reaffirmed history teaching and learning as an integral cornerstone of democracy, human rights and the rule of law. The present report is a testament to the enduring importance of history education for fostering peace and mutual understanding in Europe.