Debates Over Right to Withdraw from Religious Education in England

Abstract

Religious education which is among mandatory subjects in primary and secondary schools in England, has also the right of withdrawal. Parents can withdraw their children from religious education wholly or partially without giving a reason. However, this right has recently become a matter of debate. As the right of withdrawal is a contentious issue in Turkey, the article explores the debates in England to see how these debates are taken place in other countries. Reports, and news about these debates and recent reports on religious education were analysed. It is found that although some demand the removal immediately, the majority expects some reforms in religious education before the removal. However, there is no consensus on how and to what end religious education should be reformed. Moreover, Religious Education Commission report which is the most extensive report on religious education in recent years opted for the preservation of the right of withdrawal. The article considers the context within which these debates occur in England and whether it is possible to abolish the right of withdrawal from practical, political and human rights' point of view.