EDUCATION
The Salzburg Statement on Collective Action for Education Equity In December 2024, an international group of 55 educators,
Insights from Global Education Equity Initiatives
policymakers, and researchers met in Salzburg for a session on "The Future of Teaching." One of the themes explored in the session focused on collective action and teacher leadership as
The Salzburg Statement reflects collective
levers for equitable education reform. This Statement reflects
insights from transformative education initiatives
the group's shared aspirations, lessons learned from decades of
around the world, demonstrating how localized
persistent global challenges, and the mindset shifts necessary for
efforts can create lasting systemic change.
sustainable transformation in education systems worldwide.
• The Áncash Effect (Peru): A grassroots-
The Statement aligns with the Sustainable Development
driven movement that highlights the power
Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5
of integrating the voices of a broad range
(Gender Equality), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 17
of educational actors (students, teachers,
(Partnerships for the Goals). By advancing collective leadership
parents, authorities) to drive systemic change.
and multi-stakeholder collaboration, we work towards ensuring inclusive, equitable, and quality education for all (Target 4.1),
• Educando and Oaxaca Community
increasing teacher support and professional development (Target
Foundation (Mexico): A foundation that
4.c), and strengthening education systems through community-
ensures inclusive dialogue by bringing all
driven action (Target 4.5).
stakeholders to the decision-making table.
Leadership in Collective Action • Mexicanos Primero (Mexico): An NGO that has shown how collective action can be
Leadership in collective action is about aligning heart and mind—
catalyzed through continuous data-based
connecting human purpose with practical solutions. It is not merely
narrative building.
about creating policies, but inspiring collaboration, building trust, and redistributing power so communities lead the shaping of their
• SEED Care and Support Foundation & Black
futures. Leadership transcends titles and roles - it is reflected
Girl’s Dream Initiative (Nigeria): An initiative
in the everyday actions of individuals like teachers, families and
that leverages local and youth leadership
caregivers, and policymakers, whose decisions ripple through
to foster collective ownership to drive
society to drive meaningful change.
transformation in underserved regions. Transforming education systems requires the collective effort • Shikshagraha (India): A model for how
of many different constituents. Teachers, students, parents,
hyperlocal, community-driven school
policymakers, media, and the private sector all have crucial roles
improvements can scale nationally by
in amplifying and sustaining educational transformation. At the
weaving together government, grassroots
core of this process is the recognition of shared humanity and
organizations, and market actors.
understanding that sustainable change is built on mutual respect, trust, empathy, and vulnerability.
• Teach for All: A global network that is developing collective leadership to ensure all
This is urgent work, but it requires patience and needs spaces for
children can fulfill their potential.
reflection, dialogue, and healing. By sharing stories and listening to diverse perspectives, we foster deeper empathy and collaboration
These initiatives, deeply rooted in local contexts,
across education systems, leading to more meaningful and
demonstrate the importance of investing in the
sustained change. Leadership in collective action is about
collective leadership of diverse stakeholders in
rehumanizing systems and creating a future rooted in shared
systems to drive co-created change.
purpose and hope.