Research series: Resisting gender-restrictive actors in education in Pakistan and Sierra Leone

Building on the findings of ALIGN's flagship report Whose Hands on Our Education?, ALIGN commissioned new research to explore uncover how how progress has been made in one of the most politicised and socially contested areas of education – comprehensive sexuality education (CSE). 

In many countries, CSE has faced strong resistance. Religious groups, political parties, parental groups and civil society organisations in many countries have succeeded in reducing or blocking CSE content in educational materials. Yet, these case studies from Pakistan and Sierra Leone show that change is not only possible - it's already happening.

In Pakistan, the report - Unpacking opposition: the contested landscape of life skills-based education in Pakistan - examines the complex challenges of introducing CSE content. It highlights the strategies used to navigate strong opposition from religious leaders, religious political parties, and deeply rooted conservative norms.

In Sierra Leone, the report - Muslim leaders' evolving views of child and adolescent health and life skills in Sierra Leone - reveals how resistance from Muslim religious leaders is gradually shifting. This shift has been enabled by a government approach that is sensitive, adaptive, and consultative.

Together, these reports provide valuable lessons for advocacy organisations, policymakers, and educators working to promote inclusive, rights-based education. They demonstrate how progress can be achieved, even in the face of ongoing sociopolitical resistance.