Charles Schmit, Ombudsman for Children and Adolescents, has voiced concerns about the controversial petition advocating for a ban on LGBTQIA+ topics in school curricula. Schmit described the petition as "an attempt to restrict children's access to objective information about sexuality."
The Ombudsman emphasised that schools should reflect the diversity of individuals and family models present in society, which includes LGBTIQIA+ individuals, couples, and families.
He warned that the petition's demands could undermine various children's rights, including the right to be heard, to express themselves freely, and to receive a comprehensive education that supports their development and health.
Furthermore, "it goes without saying" that educational content should be age-appropriate, Schmit said, citing internationally recognised guidelines from UNESCO (available in English, French, and Spanish) on when and how children should be introduced to different topics.
