What’s happening

Saudi Arabia has made substantial revisions to its educational curriculum, specifically in textbooks, by removing content that previously characterized Israel negatively. References to Israel as the “enemy” have been eliminated, and the depiction of Palestine has been altered on several maps. These adjustments follow research conducted by the Institute for Monitoring Peace and Cultural Tolerance in School Education (IMPACT-se) based in London.

Why it matters

The changes signify a meaningful shift in Saudi Arabia’s educational approach and could set the stage for a more peaceful Middle East. By presenting Israel in a more balanced light and reducing antisemitic content, there is potential to foster better understanding and tolerance among future generations in Saudi Arabia. This educational reform aligns with broader efforts to promote normalizations between the two countries.

Driving the news

The latest IMPACT-se report reveals several notable changes:

• Removal of an entire social sciences textbook for high school students that contained anti-Israel content.
• Correction of inaccurate portrayals of Zionism—no longer teaching students it aimed to expel Palestinians, seize holy sites, and more.
• Lessening of negative descriptions about Judaism and Christianity.

Despite these advancements, some maps still fail to acknowledge Israel and there remain some texts where Israel is referred to as “the Israeli occupation” relating to the 1948 War.

The broader context

The curriculum adjustments come amidst ongoing diplomatic efforts by the U.S. to foster normalization between Israel and Saudi Arabia. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has engaged with senior officials to promote such initiatives, emphasizing the importance of moving towards a two-state solution. Changes in educational materials in Saudi Arabia can serve as a supportive underpinning to these larger geopolitical efforts.

Worth noting

While some previous falsehoods have been removed and violence-inciting materials toned down, the Holocaust remains unmentioned in the Saudi curriculum. Continued dialogue and progress in these areas are essential for the complete embrace of tolerance and truthful historical education.

What they are saying

IMPACT-SE CEO Marcus Sheff comments on the positive shift, stressing, “The Saudi textbooks published for the 2023/24 school year represent another step toward turning the curriculum into an educational framework that encourages tolerance, peace, and greater equality. These changes are good news for the future of the entire region.”

This story was first published on ynetnews.com.