The regional office of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for Latin America and the Caribbean has endorsed a World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) animal welfare education program for primary schools.

WSPA's ‘Respect for all forms of life' education program for elementary schools has been a successful and popular initiative in Costa Rica for over 16 years.  With the endorsement of the regional UNESCO office in Santiago, Chile, WSPA is now rolling out the program in schools throughout Chile.

In 2006, WSPA commissioned the Chilean consultancy ‘Ecosfera Consultores' to identify educational subjects where animal welfare topics could be integrated and to develop materials for teachers and students.  The materials will be linked to environmental education programs at certified schools in Chile.

Endorsement of the WSPA initiative by the regional UNESCO office is recognition of the interdependency between humans, animals and the environment.  This collaboration will also ensure that animal welfare is part of the UN ‘Decade of Education for Sustainable Development' program to integrate the principles of sustainable development into all aspects of education and learning.

WSPA's education program also aligns with UNESCO's policy of sharing best education practice worldwide and stimulating experimentation, innovation and policy dialogue.  WSPA similarly believes that raising awareness, promoting dialogue and critical thinking, and creating legislative and policy changes are the most effective means to change people's attitudes towards animals.

Jasmijn de Boo, Education Projects Manager, comments “we are really excited about the partnership with UNESCO and hope that the endorsement for our animal welfare schools-based programs will continue in other parts of the world. Our program tries to ensure that young people across the world are instilled with a respect for all forms of life.”

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