The Right to Education for Afghan Refugee Children in Iran: Barriers and Progress

Abstract

The crisis of displacement has resulted in a situation where numerous refugee children, including those, from Afghanistan residing in Iran are encountering obstacles when it comes to accessing education. Despite Iran’s stance towards welcoming Afghan refugees, there are still significant challenges in ensuring that these children have fair and inclusive opportunities for education. This qualitative mixed-methods study is grounded in the Human Rights-Based Approach and theories surrounding inequality and social inclusion. It delves into the legal frameworks, socioeconomic constraints, cultural factors, and institutional challenges that hinder refugee children’s access to education in Iran. The study aims to explore the gap between Iranian policies and the lived realities of Afghan families. Through documentary analysis, semi-structured interviews with Afghan parents, and an examination of the interplay of multidimensional factors this study uncovers intricate registration processes, economic exclusion, cultural biases and inconsistencies in policy implementation that contribute to systemic disparities. The findings of this study offer recommendations for legal reforms, socio-economic inclusion initiatives, enhanced institutional capacity, strategies for community involvement alignment with international standards as well as ongoing monitoring efforts to uphold the fundamental right of Afghan refugee children to receive a quality education in Iran.