2021 was a year of transition and resilience for United by schools.
Confronted with a major funding crisis, the association was forced to rethink its operations after the collapse of several sponsorship commitments, including those from the Theia Group and its European subsidiaries. This challenging financial situation led to the closure of its offices and the termination of salaried positions, but did not diminish the determination of its members. An internal audit was launched, and the headquarters were relocated to Switzerland, placing the organization within a more favorable environment for non-governmental entities and paving the way for a new phase of development.
Despite these difficulties, United by schools continued to shine through the strength of its initiatives and the institutional recognition it received. Its participation in the documentary “À bonne école”, broadcast on Canal+ Kids and myCANAL, allowed the association to share its innovative educational methods — such as color-coded playgrounds, with the wider public and educational community. On the national stage, the French National Assembly, through Member of Parliament Pierre-Alain Raphan, awarded United by schools, Lenny Pamart, and the students of the Committee on School Climates a medal of honor, recognizing their commitment to fostering dialogue between youth and diplomacy.
Internationally, the third session of the Committee on School Climates, held in Geneva, marked a decisive moment with the adoption in second reading of the Convention for the Improvement of School Climates. Drafted by civil society, the text seeks to raise awareness among UN Member States about the creation of peaceful and equitable educational environments.
The year concluded with a prestigious recognition: the Centre for Diplomatic and Strategic Studies (CEDS), affiliated with the Academic Council on the United Nations System (ACUNS), awarded Lenny Pamart an Honorary Doctorate (Honoris Causa) for his work in bridging children and diplomatic institutions, particularly within the United Nations framework.
Thus, 2021 symbolized both challenge and achievement. Despite financial hardship, United by schools remained steadfast in its mission: to give young people a voice, defend their rights, and build more humane school climates, in France and around the world.