Gurukul International

The Salamanca Declaration’s Influence on National Education Policies: A Comparative Analysis
 
Sreelogna Dutta Banerjee¹ & Jayanta Mete ²
Research Scholar¹, Professor², Department of Education,
Faculty of Education, University of Kalyani, Kalyani, West Bengal, India-741235
sreelognadutta@gmail.com, & jayanta_135@yahoo.co.in
Sreelogna Dutta Banerjee ORCID ID – 0009-0006-7585-7182
 
Abstract
Introduction: The Salamanca Declaration of 1994, a global movement for inclusive education, has significantly influenced national education policies in five countries: Spain, India, South Africa, Brazil, and Canada, with a focus on their interpretation and implementation.
Objectives: The objectives of this study were to analyze the influence of the Salamanca Declaration on national education policies, identify and compare the strategies employed by these countries, evaluate the outcomes and challenges of inclusive education policies, and provide insights and recommendations for improving inclusive education.
Methodology: A qualitative methodology was adopted, utilizing case studies and comparative analysis. Data were collected from academic journals, government reports, policy documents, and interviews with education experts.
Findings: Inclusive education policies vary between developed and developing countries. In developed countries like Canada, resources are allocated effectively, leading to comprehensive teacher training programs. However, in developing countries like India and Brazil, funding gaps, infrastructure inadequacies, and shortages of trained teachers hinder their effective implementation.
Conclusion: The Salamanca Declaration has significantly influenced national education policies, but its implementation varies due to economic development, governance structures, and socio-cultural contexts. The study emphasizes the need for continuous efforts, targeted interventions, and international collaboration to improve inclusive education policies globally.
 
Keywords: Inclusive Education, Salamanca Declaration, National Education Policies, Special Educational Needs, Comparative Analysis