Informed by the United Nations Pact for the Future, the GEM serves as a venue for stakeholders—government officials, international organizations, civil society, and education experts—to collaborate on strategies that address systemic challenges in education. Its outcomes are essential for shaping education policy, mobilizing resources, and fostering partnerships that ensure all learners, especially the most marginalized, have access to quality education.

In 2024, the meeting takes on added significance as it marks the midpoint to 2030, a critical juncture for reviewing progress and addressing gaps in the implementation of SDG 4. It is also closely linked to the broader global education agenda, contributing directly to UNESCO's efforts to build inclusive, resilient education systems, particularly in crisis-affected areas.

The 2024 GEM discussions focused on priority areas such as enhancing educational equity, improving access to quality learning resources, and integrating technology into education systems. Stakeholders emphasized the importance of inclusive policies that cater to the needs of marginalized groups, including girls, refugees, and children with disabilities. Additionally, the meeting explored innovative financing mechanisms and collaborative partnerships to address the funding gaps hindering progress toward SDG 4. Highlighting these pivotal themes, the GEM sought to inspire collective action and commitment to transforming education for all learners.

With only six years left to achieve SDG 4, the Fortaleza GEM is an opportunity to accelerate progress and scale up global action. Collaboration among governments, international bodies, and civil society reinforces the need for bold commitments and immediate action to address the urgent challenges facing education systems worldwide. The results of the GEM will contribute to the upcoming high-level global meetings, ensuring that education remains a top priority in the broader Sustainable Development Agenda. Following the GEM, the outcomes will also lay the groundwork for the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development and the World Social Summit in 2025.

The Arab States have an indispensable role to play in the global education agenda, and the 2024 Global Education Meeting (GEM) offers a unique opportunity for the region to address its specific educational challenges. From climate education and digital transformation to peacebuilding and equitable financing, the Arab region’s priorities must be integrated into the broader global education strategies. Contributing to the Fortaleza Declaration, would help the Arab States ensure that their perspectives and needs are fully represented, driving progress toward SDG 4 and ensuring that all learners in the region, particularly the most vulnerable, have access to quality, inclusive education.

To learn more about the results of the Arab States' consultation on the 2024 Global Education Meeting and to review the outcome document, click here.

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