Education and human rights as pillars of democratic legitimacy

Discussions regarding the role of education in sustaining democracy and human rights highlight the importance of fostering critical citizenship. Drawing on the theories of Paulo Freire and Antonio Gramsci, the concept of human rights is framed not merely as a legal framework, but as a cultural achievement that must be actively learned and defended through social dialogue and the construction of democratic values within schools.

In Chile, this educational foundation is being examined in the context of a perceived crisis of democratic legitimacy. Data indicates a decline in political participation among young people, particularly during periods of voluntary voting. This trend, alongside concerns regarding corruption and a lack of identification with political candidates, underscores the necessity of human rights education to promote respect, equality, and responsible social participation to build a more inclusive society.