Abstract:
In this study, we analyse similarities and differences in 957 students’ perceptions of the
history of human rights in six countries: England, India, New Zealand, South Africa, Sweden and
the United States of America. This is investigated through the lens of the intended, implemented and
achieved curricula. Our aim is to better understand what historical events students perceive as central
in the history of human rights in different countries and how this may relate to education about,
through and for human rights across borders. While the findings indicate a global culture of human
rights, we identify several challenges in the teaching and learning of universal human rights in
history education. In some instances, notions of nationalism and exceptionalism in society and
history culture pose great challenges to the teaching and learning of human rights. In others, a strong
focus on the global world have complicated the identification of human rights issues in the local
context. Our findings also highlight the neglect of certain historical narratives, most notably the
history of indigenous and minority groups. These findings are significant to researchers, teachers
and decision-makers interested in furthering human rights and international understanding through
education.
