Education Ethnic segregation in schools, including ethnically-divided education systems and the physical separation of pupils from different communities, creates blocks on the road to sustainable peace and hinders the building of democratic and inclusive societies. However, functional (multi-ethnic) education institutions at different levels can make a major contribution to breaking down cycles of mistrust and conflict. The OSCE’s experience shows that abolishing ethnic segregation in schools leads to increased social cohesion, which is a fundament of peaceful societies. To support such efforts, external interventions should aim at ensuring that a legal basis for the establishment of a functioning (multi-ethnic) education system is in place. Pupils should follow a common curriculum, rather than one that is ethnically based. Sensitive issues, such as (common) history and geography, should be dealt with in a responsible manner and not foster divisive narratives of the past. To this end, teachers must be properly trained in promoting inclusive approaches to education instead of helping to fortify segregation and separation. Civic education is but one subject that allows future generations to be brought up as proactive and informed citizens who can work together to build peaceful societies. Extra-curricular activities that bring together pupils associations, teachers and public officials, across ethnic divides can also contribute to building sustainable peace in polarized and conflict-affected societies. Identifying issues of common interest as well as raising awareness about the need for tolerance and mutual respect are essential elements of such processes. 59