Prior to the COVID-19 outbreak, the world was looking at an unprecedented rise in civil unrest (see image). This data does not include the anti-racism or Black Lives Matter riots and marches. (Source: https://www.maplecroft.com/insights/analysis/47-countries-witness-surge-in-civil-unrest/)

In Bolivia I was no stranger to the calls of national pride and indeed the propaganda alluding to the evils of imperialism. It set an interesting backdrop for our schools pushing a global perspective. Later as a Head of an IB school in Chile there were unique challenges. Much of the unrest centred upon nationalistic pride, whether they subscribed to the ideology of the indigenous flag or the flag of the republic. Upon returning to the UK, opinions were loud with the voices of Brexit and the call for Scottish Independence echoing across all media platforms. Here in Azerbaijan, I have led an international school through a period of war with its neighbour and the liberation of its lands from foreign power. During this time nationalistic pride was fierce, flag waving was the norm, as was criticism and, "demonizing," of the enemy.

What does this mean for educators who see international mindedness, intercultural tolerance and understanding as the way forward? The IBO has long seen it as a tool for lasting peace. As an educator I have seen students enabled to engage with alternative viewpoints and investigate and evaluate different perspectives. Ultimately enabling the learner to see the world through the eyes of others. As school boards can be tempted to join in the patriotic sabre rattling, students can be encouraged to take part in events for propaganda.  

What does this mean for the support and role of international mindedness in schools?

Hear more from Carl Lander on this, and share ideas, experiences and strategies at our 39^th Annual Conference, where he will be leading the session ‘International and Intercultural Mindedness in the Face of Rising Nationalism’. Carl will draw upon his experiences in Latin America, Europe, Africa and Azerbaijan to raise questions, and delegates will be encouraged to work out the importance and relevance of developing global perspectives, as well as international mindsets, against a backdrop of raising nationalist agendas.