School closures during the Covid-19 pandemic in the light of state obligations under the UN convention on the rights of the child : a comparative study of Belgium, France, Italy and Poland

Abstract

School closures and the introduction of distance online learning were among the key measures introduced by states to limit the propagation of the Corona virus during the COVID-19 pandemic. These decisions limited children’s access to education, but also had a broader impact on their well-being and rights. This chapter compares the approach to primary school closures and reopening in Belgium, France, Italy and Poland during the first two waves of the pandemic in the light of state obligations under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (the CRC). The analysis focuses on the role the best interests principle and the right to be heard in the decision-making process in each country. It further draws more general conclusions on the realisation of the child’s right to participation and the implementation of the CRC in each jurisdiction.