Promoting peace education and fostering cross-border understanding was at the heart of the 12th Peace Education Assembly, where educators from China, Japan, and Korea came together. The gathering, held in Tokyo on August 6–7, 2025, highlighted the importance of teaching historical truth, nurturing respect among nations, and empowering the next generation to build a peaceful East Asia. Since its beginning in 2006, this assembly has been a platform for education unions to share experiences, ideas, and teaching methods that contribute to peace.
I find this topic important because it shows how education goes beyond textbooks—it can shape attitudes, heal historical wounds, and prevent conflict. In a region where unresolved tensions and differing narratives of history often spark disagreements, such initiatives create space for dialogue and mutual respect.
When teachers from three countries that have shared complicated histories stand united for peace, it sets an example for students and policymakers alike. As someone who believes education is not just about marks but about values, I feel peace education is essential for preparing young people to live in a more cooperative world.
The origins of the Peace Education Assembly
- The initiative was launched in 2006 by the Japan Teachers’ Union (JTU) as a response to growing historical revisionism.
- Over the years, the platform has expanded to include the Korean Teachers and Education Workers Union (KTU) and China’s National Committee of the Educational, Scientific, Cultural, Health and Sports Workers’ Union.
- The assemblies, held every two years, focus on truth-telling, mutual understanding, and solidarity.
Highlights from the 12th Assembly
- The 2025 event in Tokyo featured discussions on peace education curricula that address sensitive historical issues.
- Educators shared classroom practices that encourage critical thinking, empathy, and intercultural understanding.
- Joint workshops highlighted positive teaching examples where students engage in dialogues about peace, reconciliation, and cooperation.
- Participants emphasised that young learners should see themselves as contributors to regional stability, not just passive observers of history.
Why peace education matters today
- Rising nationalism and misinformation have created fresh challenges in East Asia.
- Teachers play a frontline role in countering hate narratives and fostering inclusive identities.
- Peace education is directly linked to sustainable development goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 on quality education and SDG 16 on peace and justice.
