Response to UK Government's pledge to Global Partnership for Education

“Today’s pledge represents a deeply destructive retreat from the UK’s proud history of backing global education. After devastating cuts to UK aid, which have already seen education deprioritised, it’s alarming to see the government reduce their contribution to the world’s largest education fund by 77%. 

“At a time when 273 million children are out of school worldwide - a figure that has risen for seven consecutive years - this decision will have drastic consequences for children’s futures. 

“As attacks on girls’ rights threaten progress around the world, education remains one of the most powerful tools we have to protect girls and build safer communities that thrive. When girls aren’t in school, they are far more vulnerable to child marriage, gender-based violence and teenage pregnancy. The government’s ambition to tackle violence against women and girls around the world cannot be reconciled with a reduced investment in education.  

“As the reality of the aid budget cuts start to take effect, we need the government to set out how it will protect investment in girls’ education and deliver on its commitments to women and girls. We urge the UK Government to increase its contribution to the Global Partnership for Education over the replenishment period.”